Grammar Topic
Cleft Sentences: Emphasis
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Explanation
Cleft sentences reorganize a sentence to emphasize a particular element (who, what, when, where).
It-cleft: It was John who/that broke the window. (emphasizes John)
It-cleft with when/where: It was in 1969 that men first landed on the moon. It was in Paris that we first met.
Wh-cleft (pseudo-cleft): What I need is a good rest. What she said was very kind. All I want is some peace and quiet.
All-cleft: All you need to do is study hard. All she wants is to be happy.
The thing/reason is: The thing is, I don't have time. The reason is that I was sick.
These structures are common in formal writing and speeches for emphasis.
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Examples
It-cleft: It was John who broke the window. It was Sarah who won the prize.
It-cleft (time/place): It was in 1969 that men first landed on the moon. It was in Paris that we first met.
Wh-cleft: What I need is a good rest. What she said was very kind. What matters most is your health.
All-cleft: All you need to do is study hard. All she wants is to be happy.
The thing/reason: The thing is, I don't have time. The reason is that I was sick.
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Test Your Knowledge
Mini Quiz
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Which sentence correctly illustrates 'Cleft Sentences: Emphasis'?
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