finite

Type: adjective

Definitions: (adjective) A finite clause is one that has a verb in present or past tense or is imperative or subjunctive. (adjective) If something is finite, it has a limit. It doesn’t keep going forever.

Examples: (adjective) In the sentence “I want to go to the store”, “I want” is a finite verb clause but “to go to the store” is not, because it doesn’t say who is doing it: it is not limited to one subject. (adjective) Main clauses are always finite, but subordinate clauses can be finite or non-finite. (adjective) There is a finite amount of energy in the universe. (adjective) This problem has a finite number of correct answers.

Synonyms: adjectives: restricted, definite, limited.

Academic Word List Sublist and Group: 7 A