A cleft sentence is a complex structure in which a single main clause is split into two parts, creating a sentence that emphasizes a specific element by placing it in a separate clause. Cleft sentences are often used to highlight or bring attention to a piece of particular information, making them helpful in expressing emphasis and clarity in English.
Key features of cleft sentences:
- Structure: A cleft sentence generally consists of two main clauses: the main and the subordinate (or relative). The main clause provides the essential information, while the subordinate clause provides additional detail or emphasis.
Example: It was the cat that knocked over the vase. In this example, โIt was the catโ is the main clause, and โthat knocked over the vaseโ is the subordinate clause. - Cleft Sentences with โItโ: Many cleft sentences start with the pronoun โitโ followed by a form of the verb โto beโ (such as โis,โ โwas,โ โhas been,โ etc.).
Example: Itโs the thought that counts. โItโsโ is the cleft structure, and โthe thought that countsโ is the emphasized element. - Emphasis: Cleft sentences are often used for emphasis, directing attention to a specific part of the sentence.
Example: Itโs in the drawer that I found the key. The emphasis is on โin the drawer,โ indicating where the key was found. - Variations: While โitโ cleft sentences are common, other variations use different relative pronouns or adverbs for emphasis.
Example: What he needs is more time. In this example, โWhat he needsโ is the cleft structure, emphasizing the subject.
Cleft sentences are a stylistic choice, and their use can add nuance and emphasis to written and spoken communication. They provide a way to structure sentences to draw attention to specific information within a larger context.
