In the world of grammar, sentence structure can greatly influence how a message is delivered and perceived. One interesting category of sentence type is the impersonal sentence. While many sentences express a clear subject performing an action, impersonal sentences break from this pattern by removing personal subject references altogether. This structure is used frequently in both formal writing and spoken language to convey general truths, describe natural events, or present information without assigning personal responsibility. Understanding what makes a sentence impersonal is crucial for learners aiming to write or speak more precisely and professionally.
Definition of an Impersonal Sentence
An impersonal sentence is one that does not refer to a specific person or agent. In these types of sentences, the subject is either omitted or replaced by a neutral pronoun like it or a passive voice structure. The goal is to present an idea objectively without focusing on who is performing the action. This form is commonly used in scientific, academic, and formal writing, as well as in everyday expressions about the environment or general conditions.
Key Characteristics of Impersonal Sentences
To recognize impersonal sentences, it’s helpful to understand their typical traits:
- They usually start with a subject like it or use passive voice.
- They avoid naming a specific person as the subject.
- They present information in a neutral or general tone.
- They are often used in weather reports, instructions, or formal observations.
Common Structures of Impersonal Sentences
Using It as a Dummy Subject
One of the most recognizable formats of impersonal sentences involves the use of it as a dummy or empty subject. In these cases, it does not refer to a specific thing but serves as a grammatical placeholder to fulfill the sentence structure. Examples include:
- It is raining.
- It seems that the project is delayed.
- It is important to stay focused.
In each case, it does not represent a person or tangible object. Instead, it allows the sentence to express a condition, opinion, or event in a grammatically complete way without identifying a doer.
Passive Voice Constructions
Another form of impersonal expression is the passive voice. This structure focuses on the action itself rather than who performs it. The passive form often eliminates the subject entirely or replaces it with an indefinite agent. For example:
- The decision was made to postpone the meeting.
- The results were published yesterday.
- The roads were closed due to flooding.
Here, the emphasis is on the result or event rather than on who initiated it, which creates a more objective tone.
Why Use Impersonal Sentences?
Clarity and Objectivity
Impersonal sentences are useful when the goal is to communicate clearly and neutrally. This is especially important in academic or scientific contexts, where the focus should be on the data or findings rather than the researcher or author. For example, rather than writing We discovered a new species, a scientist might say, A new species was discovered.
Formality in Language
In professional and formal writing, impersonal sentence structures are often preferred. They help avoid subjectivity and make the tone more appropriate for reports, business communication, and technical documentation. Using phrases like It is recommended or It has been observed adds a layer of detachment that is suitable for these settings.
Generalization and Universality
Impersonal sentences also allow for generalized statements that are not tied to a specific person or group. These are often used in moral guidance, instructions, or everyday comments:
- It’s wrong to lie.
- It’s best to arrive early for interviews.
- It’s said that practice makes perfect.
Such statements express common truths or advice without directly addressing the listener or reader, making them more universally applicable.
Examples of Impersonal Sentences in Context
To better understand how impersonal sentences function in different scenarios, consider these examples from various types of communication:
In Scientific Writing
- It has been demonstrated that temperature affects enzyme activity.
- The sample was analyzed using spectrometry.
In Weather Reports
- It is expected to snow tomorrow.
- It was a hot and humid day.
In Formal Instructions
- It is advised to submit the form by Friday.
- All fields should be filled out completely.
How to Form Impersonal Sentences
Using Introductory It
Start with it followed by a form of the verb to be, then an adjective or verb phrase:
- It is crucial to double-check the data.
- It appears that the economy is recovering.
Using Passive Voice
Focus on the object and change the verb to passive form. You may leave out the agent completely:
- The agreement was signed yesterday.
- The issue was resolved promptly.
Using General Verbs Without a Personal Subject
Some sentences can be formed using verbs in a general way, omitting the personal subject:
- One should always be honest. (Though one is a pronoun, it is impersonal.)
- There is a need for more research.
When Not to Use Impersonal Sentences
While impersonal sentences are useful, they are not always the best choice. In narrative writing, personal stories, or informal communication, they can feel distant or overly formal. Overusing impersonal constructions can make your writing seem cold or robotic. It’s essential to match your tone to your audience. For example, a heartfelt letter or blog post may benefit from a more personal touch rather than objective language.
An impersonal sentence is a valuable grammatical tool that helps writers and speakers present ideas without personal bias or direct involvement. Whether through the use of it as a dummy subject or passive voice, these structures enhance clarity, objectivity, and professionalism. Commonly used in formal, academic, and instructional settings, impersonal sentences are ideal for conveying facts, general truths, or external conditions. However, effective communication also requires knowing when to apply or avoid them based on tone and audience. Mastering this type of sentence structure allows for more versatile and effective language use.