Unit 4: Introductory It

It as an `empty’ Subject

We may use it at the beginning of a given

sentence:

 To talk about weather, time or dates,

situations and distance:

It’s a bit chilly for this time of year.

It’s about half past ten.
It’s about forty kilometres away.
 Introductory It

`Introductory It´ > Empty `it´ used to

introduce or identify something later
in the phrase.

`What’s the problem?’ `It’s nothing.

It’s just that I’m worried about
work.’
Common expressions with It

• It + BE + adjective:
It’s hard to know if…
It’s easy to believe that…

• FIXED EXPRESSIONS:
It’s no wonder / no coincidence that…
It’s no fun + -ing
It’s considered rude to…
It’s pointless / no use + -ing
 Common expressions
with It
Examples:

It’s important to hear all sides of the

argument.

It’s pointless denying it. I saw you

do it!

It’s no use crying over spilt milk.

Introductory It – Object

We use it as an empty object after certain

verbs to introduce a clause:

Sub + Vb + it + complement + infinitive /

clause

I’d appreciate it if…

I find it hard to…
I consider it + adjective…
 More Examples:

People often consider it rude not to answer

emails quickly.

You may find it hard to believe.

I thought it a bit strange that he hadn't told

anyone.

I would appreciate it if you would help with

our enquiries.