How to use it in English

 How to use "it" in English depends entirely on what "it" refers to, as "it" is a versatile pronoun. Here is a complete guide to its most common uses:

1. As a Subject or Object Pronoun

"It" is a third-person singular pronoun used for things, animals, ideas, or situations (when the gender is unknown or irrelevant).

• As a Subject (doing the action):

  • Example: It is raining. (Talking about the weather)

  • Example: I bought a new car. It is very fast.

• As an Object (receiving the action):

  • Example: I saw the movie, and I really liked it.

  • Example: Can you pass me the book? Put it on the table.

2. The "Dummy" Subject (Weather, Time, Distance)

English sentences require a subject. When there is no specific actor (like a person or thing), we use "it" as an empty or dummy subject.

• Weather: It is hot today. / It snowed last night.

• Time: It is 3:00 PM. / It is getting late.

• Distance: It is five miles to the beach.

3. Emphasizing a Part of a Sentence (Cleft Sentences)

You can use "it is / was..." to put special emphasis on a specific part of a sentence.

• Standard sentence: John broke the window.

• Emphasized with "It": It was John who broke the window. (Focusing on who did it)

• Standard sentence: I need your help with my project.

• Emphasized with "It": It is your help that I need.

4. Common Idioms and Phrases with "It"

Native speakers use "it" in many fixed expressions:

• "Take it easy" — Relax or calm down.

• "Let's call it a day" — Stop working for now.

• "Make it happen" — Turn a plan into reality.

• "That's it" — That is correct, or that is the end.