Introductory It

A To understand this lesson is easy.
B It is easy to understand this lesson.

In this pattern,it has no meaning. It is used only to fill the subject position in the sentence.Thus,it is called introductory “it”.

*A and B mean the same thing,but sentence B is more common and useful than A.A was introduce mainly to make the meaning of C easier to understand.

*Introductory “it” can fill the position both of the subject and object.


Inroductory “it” as a subject :
• To watch musical programs is pleasant.
• It is pleasant to watch musical program.

Structure :
It +verb+subject compliment+infinitive phrase(real subject)

Introductory “it” with seem,appear and look
-Introductory “it” is also used with seem,appear and look when the subject is an infinitive phrase,a phrase with a gerund in it or a clause.

• It looked doubtful whether she would come.
It seemed strange that she should behave like that.

It is sometimes used as the object of the verbs think,feel,deem,count,consider,etc.

• I consider it a privilege to have this opportunity of welcoming you.
Introductory “it” in questions
• When was it that the manager came ?
It was at 10 am that the manager came.