Summary Comparison of Cleft Sentences

Cleft sentences are a type of sentence structure in English used to emphasize a particular part of the sentence. By splitting the sentence into two clauses, cleft sentences allow speakers to highlight specific information, typically the subject, object, or adverbial element. This structure often enhances the dramatic effect and can focus attention on a particular detail. Cleft sentences are often used for contrast or when the speaker wants to stress a particular part of the sentence for clarity or emphasis.

Cleft sentences are formed by using structures like "It is/was," "What," or "All that." These sentences typically start with "It is" or "What," followed by the part of the sentence to be emphasized. Cleft sentences can also be used for providing more clarity or making a distinction about what is being discussed.

1. Cleft Sentences with "It is/was":

In these cleft sentences, the sentence starts with "It is" or "It was," followed by the part that is being emphasized. This type of cleft sentence is often used to focus on a particular subject, object, or adverbial phrase.

• Example 1: It was John who broke the vase.

  • Explanation: In this cleft sentence, the focus is on "John," who is the one that broke the vase. The use of "It was" shifts the emphasis to John, highlighting him as the one responsible for the action.

• Example 2: It is the book on the table that I want to borrow.

  • Explanation: Here, the structure emphasizes "the book on the table" as the item that the speaker wants to borrow. The focus is placed on the object, making it clear which book is being referred to.

2. Cleft Sentences with "What":

These cleft sentences start with "What," followed by the part of the sentence that is being emphasized. "What" cleft sentences are used to highlight information or events in a more descriptive or dramatic way.

• Example 1: What I need is a vacation.

  • Explanation: The emphasis is placed on "a vacation" as the thing the speaker needs. The structure makes it clear that the main focus is on the need for a vacation.

• Example 2: What he said surprised everyone.

  • Explanation: In this example, "What he said" is emphasized as the cause of the surprise, drawing attention to the specific words that had such an impact.

3. Cleft Sentences with "All that":

The phrase "All that" is another way to create a cleft sentence that emphasizes a particular part of the sentence, often to express a limited or specific amount or concept.

• Example 1: All that I want is some peace and quiet.

  • Explanation: The structure "All that I want" emphasizes the speaker’s desire, focusing on the specific thing they are seeking, which is peace and quiet.

• Example 2: All that matters is that we are together.

  • Explanation: This cleft sentence emphasizes "that we are together" as the most important thing, placing significance on the emotional connection over any other factors.