finite (adj.)

A term used in the GRAMMATICAL classification of types of VERBS and CLAUSES. A finite verb (PHRASE) is a form that can occur on its own in an independent SENTENCE (or MAIN clause); it permits FORMAL CONTRASTS in TENSE and MOOD. Non-finite forms of the verb, on the other hand, occur on their own only in DEPENDENT clauses, and lack tense and mood contrasts. All forms except the INFINITIVES and PARTICIPLES (-ing and -en forms) are finite, e.g. is walking, have walked, walks. Clauses which contain a finite verb are finite clauses (these in English always contain a SUBJECT, except in the case of COMMANDS); otherwise, they are non-finite clauses (e.g. walking down the street, to kick the ball)