Register variation in the non-standard use of non-finite forms

This chapter examines stylistic variation in the non-standard use of non-finite detached constructions, when the non-finite form does not refer to the subject of the main verb. Various kinds of ‘deviation’ from the standard in this particular area of syntax are illustrated and discussed in connection with register. Participles and gerunds show greater variation according to register than infinitives, even though, on the whole, non-standard participles are far less frequent than non-standard gerunds or infinitives. Finally, it is argued that some non-standard non-finite forms may contribute to a sort of hybridization of the spoken and written codes.