Introductory it as Object

In all the patterns given in this section, introductory it is the Object of the clause. Although it is the Object, it does not contribute to the meaning of the clause, and is often known as a 'dummy' Object. Many of these patterns are combinations of introductory it as Subject and other patterns. For example, if the clause it is difficult to understand you is preceded by the verb find, you get a clause like I find it difficult to understand you. However, some patterns with introductory it as Object cannot be explained in this way. For example, I hate it when she's away has no equivalent pattern with introductory it as Subject.The patterns with introductory it as Object fall into five pattern groups:

▶ Pattern group 1: V it clause

▶ Pattern group 2: V it to n clause

▶ Pattern group 3: V it as n/adj clause

▶ Pattern group 4: V it n clause

▶ Pattern group 5: V it adj clause

Pattern group 1: V it clause 1.1 V it that 1.2 V it when/if Pattern group 2: V it to n clause 2.1 V it to n that 2.2 V it to n to-inf Pattern group 3: V it as n/adj clause 3.1 V it as n/adj that 3.2 V it as n/adj to-inf 3.3 V it as n/adj when/if Pattern group 4: V it n clause 4.1 V it n that 4.2 V it n to-inf 4.3 V it n when/if Pattern group 5: V it adj clause 5.1 V it adj that 5.2 V it adj to-inf 5.3 V it adj wh 5.4 V it adj when/if Other phrases

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