It + adjective + to-infinitive
Definition
The pattern it + be + adjective + to-infinitive evaluates an action or situation: It is important to check, It was difficult to decide. Anticipatory it fills the subject position, while the to-infinitive carries the main content.
Examples
-
It is important to check the figures.
The adjective evaluates the action expressed by the to-infinitive.
-
It was difficult to hear the speaker.
The pattern evaluates the action from a past viewpoint.
-
It may be impossible to finish today.
A modal can appear before be.
General evaluation vs. evaluation of a person
It is difficult to solve the puzzle.
The sentence evaluates the action without naming a specific person.
It is difficult for Leo to solve the puzzle.
A for phrase identifies the person expected to perform the action.
Use for + noun/pronoun + to-infinitive when the performer needs to be stated.
Of + person describes behaviour or character
With adjectives such as kind, careless, generous, rude and sensible, of + person evaluates the person's behaviour rather than the difficulty or importance of the action.
-
It was kind of Maya to help us.
The adjective evaluates Maya's behaviour.
-
It was careless of me to leave the door open.
The structure comments on the person's conduct.
Common mistakes
Is important to check the figures.
It is important to check the figures.
The pattern requires anticipatory it.
It is difficult me to understand.
It is difficult for me to understand.
Use for + person + to-infinitive to identify the performer.
Quick check
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence uses the basic pattern correctly?
The pattern is it + be + adjective + to-infinitive.Which sentence correctly names the performer?
Use for + person + to-infinitive for the performer of the action.Which sentence evaluates a person's behaviour?
With a character adjective such as generous, use of + person + to-infinitive.Nice work — you've completed the quick check.
Work on it + adjective + to-infinitive with Lingadoo
It's free. No ads. No credit card.