Introductory it as Subject
5.8 it V n n to-inf
The verb is followed by two noun groups and a to-infinitive clause. Both noun groups are Objects.| it | Verb group | noun group | noun group/amount | to-infinitive clause |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | Verb | Object | Object | Clause |
| It | cost | me | a fortune | to renovate the house. |
| It | does | me | good | to know I'm eating the right things. |
There are four verbs with this pattern.
She enjoyed the warmth of Rosie's company and it gave her genuine pleasure to perform little acts of kindness for her.
In the case of cost and take, the second noun group is often an amount. This pattern is it V n amount to-inf.cost do give take
It cost him a lot to admit he needed help.
It took them a long time to reach the other shore.