Table of Contents
1. What are Cleft Sentences?
A cleft sentence is a complex sentence structure used to emphasize a particular element of the sentence. It helps us highlight or bring attention to a specific piece of information. By using cleft sentences, we can make our statements more impactful and draw the listener’s or reader’s attention to the desired focus.
2. Structure of Cleft Sentences
Cleft sentences have a distinct structure that sets them apart from regular sentences. They typically consist of two clauses: the main clause and the subordinate clause. The main clause contains a form of the verb “to be” along with the focused element, while the subordinate clause provides additional information about the focused element.
The basic structure of a cleft sentence is as follows:
- It + form of “to be” + focus + that/who/which + subordinate clause
The word “it” is used as a placeholder subject, the form of “to be” can be any suitable form such as “is,” “was,” “will be,” etc., and the focus is the element we want to emphasize. The subordinate clause, introduced by “that,” “who,” or “which,” provides further details or clarifications.
Let’s see some examples to better understand the structure.
Examples
It is John who won the competition.
- Focused element: John
- Subordinate clause: who won the competition
It was in the garden where we found the lost keys.
- Focused element: in the garden
- Subordinate clause: where we found the lost keys
It is this book that I recommend for beginners.
- Focused element: this book
- Subordinate clause: that I recommend for beginners
3. Types of Cleft Sentences
Cleft sentences can be categorized into three main types based on the focus of the sentence:
It-cleft sentences: These cleft sentences use the pronoun “it” as the subject and are the most common type of cleft sentences.
Wh-cleft sentences: These cleft sentences use the pronouns “what,” “who,” “which,” or “where” as the focus and are used when asking questions or seeking specific information.
Reversed cleft sentences: These cleft sentences have the structure reversed, with the focused element at the beginning of the sentence.
Let’s explore each type with examples.
It-Cleft Sentences
It-cleft sentences are commonly used in both spoken and written English to emphasize a particular element. The focused element comes after the verb “to be” in the main clause, as explained earlier. Here are some examples:
- It is Mary who bought the tickets for the concert.
- It was the dog that destroyed my shoes.
- It is your dedication that impresses me the most.
Wh-Cleft Sentences
Wh-cleft sentences are used when we want to focus on “what,” “who,” “which,” or “where” in a sentence. They are often used in question forms or when seeking specific information. Here are some examples:
- What surprised me the most was his sudden resignation.
- Who ate all the cookies that I baked?
- Which route should we take to avoid traffic?
- Where did you find this beautiful necklace?
Reversed Cleft Sentences
Reversed cleft sentences have the focused element at the beginning of the sentence, followed by the verb “to be” and the remaining clause. This type of cleft sentence structure allows for a more dramatic impact. Here are some examples:
- The love for music is what drives her every day.
- My passion for cooking is what defines me.
- Their dedication to the project is what led to its success.
4. Usage and How to Use Cleft Sentences
Cleft sentences are used to bring attention to specific information, highlight important details, or create emphasis. They are particularly useful when we want to shift the focus from the regular sentence structure.
So, how can you use cleft sentences effectively? Here are a few tips:
Emphasize a person or thing: Use cleft sentences to put emphasis on a particular person, object, or idea in your sentence. By doing so, you make it stand out and draw attention.
Example: It was Kate who came up with the brilliant idea.
Provide clarity: Cleft sentences can help provide clarity by specifying or emphasizing a certain aspect of the sentence.
Example: It is the blue one that I want to buy.
Answer specific questions: When someone asks you a question, you can use a cleft sentence to answer it by focusing on the specific information they requested.
Example: Who won the game? It was Sarah who scored the winning goal.
Remember, cleft sentences are a stylistic choice, and they should be used sparingly and appropriately to create the desired impact.
