Cleft sentence meaning

Cleft sentence definitions

Understanding cleft sentences can greatly enhance one's writing and communication skills. A cleft sentence is a complex sentence that has a simple meaning and is split into two clauses for emphasis or clarity.

Importance of Cleft Sentences

Cleft sentences are essential in emphasizing certain information or ideas in a sentence. By breaking down a sentence into two clauses, the writer or speaker can draw attention to specific details, making the message clearer and more impactful.

Structure of a Cleft Sentence

A typical cleft sentence consists of a main clause and a subordinate clause, the latter starting with words like "it is," "what," "that," or "who." For example, "It was Jane who won the contest" is a cleft sentence where the focus is on "Jane."

Usage in Writing

Writers often use cleft sentences to highlight a specific aspect of a sentence that they want to emphasize. This emphasis can help clarify information and guide the reader towards understanding the main point of the sentence.

Additionally, cleft sentences are commonly used in speeches and presentations to emphasize key points and make the message more memorable to the audience.

Conclusion

Overall, understanding cleft sentences and their structure is crucial for effective communication and writing. By utilizing cleft sentences, individuals can enhance the impact of their messages and ensure that important details are not overlooked.

Cleft sentence Examples

1. Mary is the one who won the award.
2. It was Susan who ate all the cookies.
3. The person I saw at the store was my old friend.
4. What I need is a good night's sleep.
5. The reason she left early was because she wasn't feeling well.
6. I heard it was John who broke the vase.
7. The one thing I want for my birthday is a new camera.
8. Who I think should be promoted is Sarah.
9. The book she recommended was really interesting.
10. It was the dog that knocked over the trash can.

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