How to Avoid Splitting Infinitives:

Infinitives are a fundamental aspect of English grammar, and mastering their use is essential for producing polished academic writing.

Infinitives, which consist of the word "to" followed by the base form of a verb (e.g., to write, to analyse, to study), are versatile and can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs.

However, one of the common pitfall’s writers encounter is the split infinitive—a construction where an adverb or other word is inserted between "to" and the verb, such as in the phrase to boldly go.

While split infinitives are sometimes acceptable in informal writing, they can detract from the clarity and formality of academic writing. This article will guide you on how to use infinitives effectively and how to avoid splitting them in academic writing.

Understanding the Infinitive in Academic Writing

Infinitives serve various functions in sentences, and their correct usage can enhance the precision and sophistication of your writing. Here are some common uses:

1. As a Subject:

   To write clearly is essential in academic work.

   
   

2. As a Direct Object:

   The professor expects students to submit their assignments on time.

   
   

3. As a Purpose:

   She conducted the experiment to understand the chemical reactions better.

   
   

4. As a Modifier:

   The committee has a plan to improve the department’s resources.

   
   

These examples illustrate how infinitives can be integrated smoothly into academic sentences to express intent, expectation, or explanation. However, the challenge arises when adverbs or other elements are placed between "to" and the verb, resulting in a split infinitive.

The Split Infinitive: To Split or Not to Split?

The split infinitive has been a topic of debate among grammarians for centuries. While modern usage often permits split infinitives, especially when they enhance the readability or rhythm of a sentence, traditional academic writing tends to favour a more conservative approach. Avoiding split infinitives is generally recommended in formal contexts to maintain clarity and adherence to conventional standards.

Consider the following sentence with a split infinitive:

• The researcher aimed to carefully analyse the data.

In this sentence, "carefully" splits the infinitive "to analyse." While the meaning is clear, the structure can be refined to reflect a more formal tone.

How to Avoid Splitting Infinitives

Unsplitting infinitives is usually straightforward and can be achieved by reordering the sentence or finding an alternative way to express the same idea.

Here are some strategies:

1. Place the Adverb Before or After the Infinitive:

   
   

   Instead of writing The researcher aimed to carefully analyse the data, consider:

   • The researcher aimed carefully to analyse the data.

   • The researcher aimed to analyse the data carefully.

     
     

2. Rearrange the Sentence:

   
   

   Sometimes, rephrasing the sentence entirely can eliminate the need for a split infinitive:

   • Original: The study was designed to rigorously test the hypothesis.

   • Revised: The study was designed to test the hypothesis rigorously.

     
     

3. Use a Different Construction:

   
   

   Occasionally, it may be better to avoid the infinitive altogether:

   • Instead of ‘The experiment was intended to thoroughly examine the samples’, try:

   • ‘The experiment was intended for a thorough examination of the samples.’

     
     

4. Consider the Rhythm and Flow:

   
   

   While unsplitting infinitives is generally advisable, the flow of your sentence should also be considered. If avoiding the split infinitive creates an awkward or overly complex sentence, it may be acceptable to leave it as is, provided it enhances clarity.

   
   

Mastering the use of infinitives and avoiding split infinitives can significantly enhance the quality of your academic writing. By adhering to traditional grammatical standards, you ensure that your work is clear, precise, and professional. However, remember that the ultimate goal is effective communication. While unsplitting infinitives is often the preferred choice, always prioritize clarity and readability in your writing.