Introductory It

In this pattern, it has no meaning. It is used only to fill the subject position in the sentence. thus, it is called introductory “it”.

Introductory “it” as a subject:
A : To see you happy is pleasent
B : It is pleasent to see you happy
Introductory it with seem, appear and look


Introductory it is also used with seem, appear and look when the subject is an infinitive phrase with a gerund ini t or a clause.

- It looked doubtfl whether she would come.
- It seemed strange that she should behave like that.
It is sometimes used as the object of the verbs think, feel, deem, count, cons, etc…
- I considered it a privilege to have this opportunity of welcoming you.

Introductory it in question
- When was is that the maneger came?
- It was at 10 am that the maneger came