Dummy/Preparatory "it"

A1 Beginner

The dummy or preparatory 'it' acts as a placeholder subject in English sentences where there is no real actor or to introduce a later subject.

Overview

In English, every sentence usually needs a subject. We use it as a 'dummy' subject when we talk about time, weather, or distance because there is no person or thing doing the action. We also use it as a 'preparatory' subject to introduce an idea before a longer phrase, such as an infinitive.

Form

It + is/was + adjective/noun/verb-ing

The dummy it always takes a singular verb, usually the verb to be. It does not refer to a specific noun mentioned before.

Examples

Common mistakes

Is cold today.
It is cold today.
English sentences require a subject. You cannot leave the subject position empty when talking about the weather.
To learn English is important.
It is important to learn English.
While the first version is grammatically possible, using 'it' as a preparatory subject is much more natural in spoken English.

It vs. There

Do not confuse 'it' with 'there'. Use 'it' to describe a state or condition, and 'there' to point out the presence of an object.

Usage	Example
Use 'It' for weather, time, and distance.	It is sunny.
Use 'There' to say something exists.	There is a sun on the flag.

Practice

___ is very hot in this room.
Show answer
It
Answer:It
Why:We use 'it' as a dummy subject to describe the temperature or environment.
___ is half past four.
Show answer
It
Answer:It
Why:When telling the time, 'it' serves as the necessary placeholder subject.
Is ___ difficult to drive a car?
Show answer
it
Answer:it
Why:In this question, 'it' is a preparatory subject for the phrase 'to drive a car'.