We can emphasize words or parts of sentences in a variety of ways. In Use of English 5-2, we are going to explore the use of Cleft Sentences.

What differences of emphasis are there in each of the following pairs of examples?

  • Bradbury has captured the imagination of nearly all sci-fi fans.
  • It is Bradbury who has captured the imagination of nearly all sci-fi fans.

 

  • He devoted so much time to writing because his personal life was unhappy.
  • It was because his personal life was unhappy that he devoted so much time to writing.

 

  • Wyndham published 'The Day of the Triffids' in 1951.
  • It was in 1951 that Wyndham published 'The Day of the Triffids'

Exercise

Using what you have learned, complete the activity.

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