What is the Infinitive?
The infinitive is the base form of a verb, often used to express actions in a general, non-conjugated way. In English, it is usually preceded by “to” (e.g., “to go,” “to eat”). The infinitive serves many functions, such as expressing purpose, intention, or possibility, and acts as a noun or a complement in sentences.
The Infinitive in Bosnian
Bosnian, a South Slavic language, uses the infinitive extensively. The infinitive form in Bosnian typically ends in -ti (e.g., “raditi” – to work, “jesti” – to eat, “pisati” – to write). It is employed in a variety of constructions, including after modal verbs, to express intention, and in certain subordinate clauses.
Main Uses of the Bosnian Infinitive
- After Modal Verbs: Modal verbs like “moći” (can), “morati” (must), and “htjeti” (want) are directly followed by the infinitive. For example: “Moram učiti” (I must study).
- Expressing Purpose: The infinitive can indicate purpose, especially with verbs of motion. Example: “Idem kupiti hleb” (I am going to buy bread).
- Subordinate Clauses: In some subordinate clauses, the infinitive is used, though it may be replaced by the “da” + present tense construction in colloquial speech.
The Infinitive in Icelandic
Icelandic, a North Germanic language, also features the infinitive prominently. The infinitive form generally ends in -a (e.g., “að borða” – to eat, “að skrifa” – to write). Like Bosnian, the infinitive follows modal verbs and serves as a non-finite form, but there are notable differences in usage and syntax.
Main Uses of the Icelandic Infinitive
- Infinitive Marker “að”: In Icelandic, the infinitive is often preceded by the particle “að” (to), similar to English. This is obligatory in many constructions: “Ég vil að borða” (I want to eat).
- After Modal Verbs: Modal verbs are followed by the bare infinitive, typically without the “að” marker. Example: “Ég vil borða” (I want to eat).
- Subordinate Clauses: In subordinate clauses expressing purpose, the “að” + infinitive construction is used: “Ég fór að kaupa mat” (I went to buy food).
Key Differences Between Bosnian and Icelandic Infinitive Usage
- Infinitive Marker: Bosnian does not use a particle equivalent to the Icelandic “að.” The infinitive stands alone (e.g., “jesti”), whereas in Icelandic, “að” is commonly required (e.g., “að borða”).
- Verb Constructions: In Bosnian, after modal verbs, the infinitive is always used. In Icelandic, the infinitive is also used, but the “að” marker is omitted after modal verbs, which is a subtle but important syntactic rule.
- Alternative Constructions: Bosnian often replaces the infinitive with the “da” + present tense verb form, especially in spoken language (e.g., “Želim da jedem” instead of “Želim jesti”). Icelandic does not have a parallel construction; the infinitive remains standard.
- Purpose Clauses: Both languages use the infinitive to express purpose, but Icelandic always uses “að” while Bosnian uses the bare infinitive form.
Practical Examples for Learners
| English | Bosnian | Icelandic |
|---|---|---|
| I want to eat. | Želim jesti. Želim da jedem. (colloquial) |
Ég vil borða. |
| I have to work. | Moram raditi. | Ég þarf að vinna. |
| I am going to buy bread. | Idem kupiti hleb. | Ég fer að kaupa brauð. |
Tips for Mastering the Bosnian Infinitive
- Pay attention to modal verbs: Always use the infinitive after them, without any extra particles.
- Recognize the “da” + present construction: This is common in spoken Bosnian, so familiarize yourself with both forms.
- Practice with native materials: Platforms like Talkpal offer interactive exercises and native dialogues that help reinforce proper infinitive usage.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences in infinitive usage between Bosnian and Icelandic can help learners avoid common pitfalls and develop a more nuanced command of Bosnian grammar. While both languages share some similarities, each has unique rules and structures that reflect their linguistic heritage. By engaging with authentic materials and practicing regularly—especially with resources like Talkpal—you can confidently master the Bosnian infinitive and take your language skills to the next level.
