Language Fundamentals
Split Infinitives

When to boldly split infinitives and when to avoid it.

Last updated

What it is

The placement of adverbs between "to" and the base verb in infinitive constructions (to boldly go), which is grammatically acceptable in modern English despite traditional objections, especially when avoiding splits creates awkwardness.

Before & after

Before

“Awkward avoidance: "We decided carefully to review the proposal" (unclear)”

After

“Natural split: "We decided to carefully review the proposal" (clear meaning)”

When you’ll use it

Mission statements: "We aim to boldly innovate" vs "We aim to innovate boldly" (both acceptable)

Performance goals: "Strive to consistently deliver" vs "Strive to deliver consistently" (emphasis differs)

Training objectives: "Learn to effectively communicate" vs "Learn to communicate effectively" (natural flow)

Strategic planning: "Plan to carefully execute" vs "Plan to execute carefully" (clarity of meaning)

Pro tip

Split when clarity or rhythm improves; avoid when it sounds clunky.

Questions & answers

3 questions

What are split infinitives and should I avoid them?

Split infinitives place words between 'to' and the verb ('to boldly go'). While traditionally dis...

Read full answer →

When are split infinitives acceptable in business communication?

Split infinitives are acceptable when they improve clarity, sound natural, or when avoiding them ...

Read full answer →

How do I decide whether to split an infinitive?

Choose based on clarity and naturalness. If avoiding the split creates awkward or unclear phrasin...

Read full answer →

Learn more

Wikipedia
Purdue OWL - Split Infinitives

Practice this concept

Practice clearer communication

Improve how you sound by practicing real speech patterns with AI analysis.

Try the AI Speech Coach