1.11 It + Infinitives; Gerunds and Infinitives As Subjects

Often an infinitive phrase is used with it as the subject of a sentence. The word it refers to and has the same meaning as the infinitive phrase at the end of the sentence. In (a): It = to learn a second language.

Example: It is difficult to learn a second language.

Gerund phrase is frequently used as the subject of a sentence.

Example: Learning a second language is difficult.

An infinitive can also be used as the subject of a sentence, but far more commonly an infinitive phrase is used with it, as in (a).

Example: To learn a second language is difficult.

The phrase for (someone) may be used to specify exactly who the speaker is talking about.

Example:

- It is easy for young children w learn a second language.

- Learning a second language is easy for young children.

- To learn a second language is easy for young children.

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