Understanding Split Infinitives
Split infinitives have been a topic of contention among grammarians for centuries. An infinitive is the base form of a verb, usually preceded by "to," such as "to run," "to eat," or "to dance." A split infinitive occurs when an adverb or other word is inserted between "to" and the verb, resulting in phrases like "to boldly go" or "to really understand." The crux of the debate surrounding split infinitives is whether they should be avoided or embraced in modern writing.
To grasp the implications of split infinitives, it’s essential to understand their historical context. The rule against split infinitives is often attributed to a misguided attempt to align English grammar with Latin grammar. In Latin, infinitives are single words and cannot be split, leading to the misconception that English should follow suit. However, English is a Germanic language that has evolved independently, and its structure allows for more flexibility in expression.
The Historical Misconception
The aversion to split infinitives gained traction in the 19th century, largely influenced by prescriptive grammarians who sought to impose rigid rules on the English language. Many of these grammarians were trained in Latin and believed that the rules of Latin should apply to English, despite the fact that the two languages operate under different grammatical principles.
This belief became so entrenched that it prompted the creation of lists of "forbidden" constructions, including split infinitives. However, this stance often overlooked the fact that language is dynamic and constantly evolving. As such, the rules that govern it should also adapt to the way people naturally communicate.
The Case for Split Infinitives
In contemporary writing, split infinitives can enhance clarity and improve the flow of sentences. They allow writers to place emphasis on the adverb, making the meaning of the sentence more precise. For example, consider the difference between "to quickly run" and "to run quickly." The former feels awkward and can lead to confusion, while the latter is clear and straightforward.
Moreover, split infinitives can sometimes avoid ambiguity. Take the sentence "She decided to not go to the party." This construction can be misinterpreted as her decision being to not attend the party. In contrast, "She decided not to go to the party" clearly communicates her choice. In this case, avoiding the split infinitive would have led to potential misinterpretation.
Common Myths About Split Infinitives
Several myths persist regarding split infinitives, perpetuated by the outdated prescriptive rules. One common myth is that split infinitives are always awkward or incorrect. In reality, many sentences containing split infinitives are perfectly natural. For example, the famous phrase "to boldly go where no man has gone before" from Star Trek is not only iconic but also demonstrates how a split infinitive can effectively convey a powerful message.
Another myth is that using split infinitives makes you sound uneducated or careless. This notion stems from the rigid adherence to prescriptive grammar rules. Yet, in modern communication—whether in writing or speaking—clarity and effectiveness should take precedence over outdated rules. The perception of education should be based on the ability to communicate ideas clearly, not on the adherence to arbitrary rules.
When to Avoid Split Infinitives
Despite the case for split infinitives, there are situations where avoiding them may be beneficial. In formal writing or when adhering to a specific style guide that discourages split infinitives, it may be wise to avoid them. Additionally, if a split infinitive makes a sentence awkward or convoluted, it’s often better to rephrase.
For example, "She decided to definitely attend the meeting" can be restructured to "She definitely decided to attend the meeting," which flows more smoothly. Ultimately, the goal should always be clarity, so if a split infinitive hinders that, it’s best to reconsider your phrasing.
Embracing Language Evolution
Language naturally evolves, and so too do its rules. The increasing acceptance of split infinitives in both spoken and written English reflects a broader trend toward valuing clarity and effectiveness over adherence to archaic rules. Writers today are encouraged to embrace the flexibility of the English language and use split infinitives when they serve a purpose in enhancing the clarity of their communication.
Furthermore, linguistic experts and modern style guides, including the American Heritage Guide to Contemporary Usage and the Chicago Manual of Style, recognize that split infinitives are not inherently wrong. They emphasize that the primary goal of writing should be to communicate ideas clearly and effectively, rather than to strictly adhere to outdated rules.
Conclusion: Trust Your Instincts
Ultimately, the decision to use or avoid split infinitives should be guided by your instincts as a writer and your understanding of your audience. In most cases, clarity and fluidity in writing are paramount, and if a split infinitive achieves that, there’s no reason to shy away from it.
As language continues to evolve, so too should our understanding of its rules. Embracing split infinitives as a legitimate part of English grammar not only reflects the language’s dynamic nature but also empowers writers to communicate more effectively. So the next time you encounter a split infinitive, remember: it’s not the construction that matters most, but how well it conveys your intended message. Trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to embrace the beauty of the English language in all its forms.