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English 1b3 Posted 16 years ago
Grammar

Does this sentence need 'it'?

"It is important to note that just because the main clause comprises the modal verb 'would,' it doesn't mean the if clause is hypothetical and requires the subjunctive mood."

I don't think this sentence should include 'it.'



I think the clause "just because the main clause comprises the modal verb 'would'" is in fact a noun clause as the subject of the verb 'doesn't mean' and thus 'it' is not meant to be there.

Is this right or wrong?





Thanks
  

Top answer

It works either way. I think most people would say (or write) it . CJ

— CalifJim

  • It works either way.
  • I think most people would say (or write) it .
  • CJ
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5 Answers
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It works either way. I think most people would say (or write) it.

CJ
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Is it an expletive/dummy it then? That is, it refers to nothing. Could you please explain this in terms of its constituents, as I'm having a hard time understand why either case works.
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It's a 'dummy' (or 'expletive') it, in which case there is no referent. Alternately, the reference of it is to the preceding idea in general, i.e., in this case, the inclusion of would in the main clause.

Just because [X is true], [the truth of X] doesn't mean that ....

CJ
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Thanks, I think I understand; is this right:

it is important to note=main clause

that just because the main clause comprises the modal verb 'would,' it doesn't mean the if clause is hypothetical and requires the subjunctive mood."= object of infinitive/noun clause

just because the main clause comprises the moda
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Thanks, I think I understand; is this right:

it is important to note=main clause OK.


that just because the main clause comprises the modal verb 'would,' it doesn't mean the if clause is hypothetical and requires the subjunctive mood."= object of infinitive/noun clause
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