She wants to travel

Definition

The phrase 'she wants to travel' represents a desire or intention expressed through a finite clause. In this structure, 'wants' serves as the main verb, while 'to travel' functions as an infinitive that conveys the action she wishes to undertake. This construction is an example of how non-finite clauses can express intentions, desires, or future actions using infinitives, participles, and gerunds.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'To travel' is an example of an infinitive phrase used to express a desire or intention.
2. The subject 'she' indicates who has the desire, making the sentence personal and specific.
3. This structure emphasizes the action of traveling as a goal that she aspires to achieve.
4. 'Wants' acts as a linking verb that connects the subject with the infinitive phrase, illustrating her motivation.
5. Non-finite clauses like this one can often replace longer expressions of desire or intention for brevity and clarity.

Review Questions

• How does the use of the infinitive 'to travel' enhance the meaning of the clause 'she wants to travel'?
  • 'To travel' adds specificity to her desire by clearly stating what she wishes to do. Infinitives convey potential actions without assigning a specific time frame, making them versatile for expressing intentions. In this case, it shows that her wish is about future possibilities rather than something currently happening.
• Discuss how the phrase 'she wants to travel' illustrates the relationship between finite and non-finite clauses.
  • 'She wants to travel' combines a finite clause ('she wants') with a non-finite clause ('to travel'). The finite part provides a clear subject and verb that conveys a complete thought in present tense. The non-finite part elaborates on what she desires without changing the tense or requiring additional subjects, showcasing how both types of clauses work together to convey more complex meanings.
• Evaluate the implications of using non-finite clauses like 'to travel' in expressing desires compared to other grammatical structures.
  • Using non-finite clauses like 'to travel' allows for more fluid and concise expression of intentions. Unlike more complex constructions that may include additional subjects or auxiliary verbs, non-finite clauses streamline communication. This efficiency can enhance clarity in writing and speaking, particularly when conveying personal aspirations, making it easier for listeners or readers to grasp underlying motivations without unnecessary complexity.

Related terms

Infinitive: The base form of a verb, usually preceded by 'to', that can function as a noun, adjective, or adverb.

Finite Clause: A clause that contains a subject and a verb, expressing a complete thought and showing tense.

Gerund: A verb form ending in -ing that functions as a noun in a sentence.