English Profile

it · pronoun

/ɪt/Full view

it (THING)

A1 used to refer to the thing, situation, or idea that has already been talked about

Dictionary examples:

"Where's my pen?" "You left it by the phone."

The argument was upsetting for us all - I don't want to talk about it.

Children who stay away from school do it for different reasons.

Learner example:

This is a very beautiful place and I like it. (Skills for Life (Entry 1); A1; Urdu)

it (SUBJECT/OBJECT)

A1 used as the subject or object of a verb to represent a phrase at the end of the sentence

Dictionary examples:

I liked it in Scotland.

It's unlikely that she'll arrive on time.

It costs less if you travel at the weekend.

Learner example:

It's [a] nice place. (Skills for Life (Entry 1); A1; Italian)

it (TIME/WEATHER)

A2 used to talk about the time, date, weather or distances

Dictionary examples:

What time is it?

It was October, so it was quite cold.

It rained all day.

Learner example:

It rained and rained and rained and it really didn't want to stop raining. (Preliminary English Test; B1; German)

it (SEEM)

B2 used as the subject of verbs such as "seem," "appear," and "look"

Dictionary example:

It seemed unfair to leave her at home.

Learner example:

It seemed fantastic but we knew our parents would never agree. (First Certificate in English; B2; Polish)

it (EMPHASIZE)

C2 used to emphasize one part of a sentence

Dictionary example:

It's the children I'm concerned about, not me.

it's sb/sth

B2 used to say the name of a person or thing when the person you are speaking to does not know

Dictionary example:

It's your Dad on the phone.