What is the grammatical error known as a 'split infinitive', and why is it sometimes accepted in modern prose?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Placing an adverb between 'to' and the bare infinitive verb
- Step 1: Step 1: An infinitive consists of 'to' plus a verb base (e.g., 'to go'). A split infinitive places an adverb between them ('to boldly go'). Step 2. Step 2: Nineteenth-century prescriptive grammarians tried to ban it based on Latin grammar, but modern style guides accept it when moving the adverb creates awkwardness or alters meaning. Answer: Placing an adverb between 'to' and the bare infinitive verb. Why not the others: It involves adverbs dividing the infinitive marker from the verb root.
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