Uses of It

  • We use it for a thing, an action, a situation or an idea.

    You've bought a new coat. It's very nice, (it = the coat)

    Skiing is an expensive hobby, isn't it?

    You have to fill in all these stupid forms. It's ridiculous. I find astrology fascinating. I'm really interested in it.

  • We use it to mean 'the unknown person'.

    Did someone ring? ~ It was Vicky. She just called to say she's arrived safely.

  • We use it for the time, the weather and distance.

    It's half past five already.

    It's Sunday tomorrow. It was much warmer yesterday.

    It's fifty miles from here to Brighton.

  • We also use it in structures with a to-infinitive or a that-clause.

    It was nice to meet your friends.

    It would be a good idea to book in advance.

    It's important to switch off the electricity.

    It's a pity (that) you can't come with us.