Expletives by Solomon Osuokam Ogbeh

Expletives are words or phrases that do not contribute directly to the meaning of a sentence but serve to emphasise or modify the sentence's structure. They can be particularly useful for adding emphasis, filling gaps in sentences, or creating a particular tone or rhythm. Expletives are often used to introduce or emphasise the subject of a sentence or to maintain a particular sentence structure.

Types of Expletives

1. There: Often used to introduce a sentence or clause where the real subject follows later. It helps in shifting focus to the subject or providing emphasis on the action or state described.
• Example: There is a new student in our class, Ada.
• Explanation: The expletive "There" introduces the sentence and sets up the structure before presenting the real subject "a new student in our class".
2. It: Commonly used to refer to time, weather, distance, or other impersonal conditions. It often functions as a placeholder to help structure sentences in a more natural way.
• Example: It is raining heavily today.
• Explanation: The expletive "It" refers to the weather condition, making the sentence grammatically complete even though "raining heavily today" is the real focus.

The Function of Expletives

1. Sentence Structure: Expletives help to create a specific sentence structure that might be more natural or emphatic. They are often used to place the focus on the subject or action of the sentence.
• Example: There was a large crowd at the market, where Chukwuma was selling his wares.
• Explanation: "There" helps to set up the context before introducing "a large crowd", which is the real subject of the sentence.
2. Emphasis: Expletives can be used to add emphasis to certain elements of a sentence, often making statements more dramatic or impactful.
• Example: It is important to note that Oluwaseun has completed his project on time.
• Explanation: "It" places emphasis on the importance of "noting" Oluwaseun's accomplishment.
3. Filling in Gaps: Expletives can fill in gaps in sentences where the real subject or action is yet to be introduced or needs to be elaborated upon.
• Example: There seems to be a misunderstanding about the deadline, as described by Chinedu.
• Explanation: "There" introduces the situation before specifying "a misunderstanding".

Using Expletives Effectively

To use expletives effectively, consider the following tips:

1. Clarity: Ensure that the use of expletives does not obscure the main point of your sentence. The expletive should help clarify the focus, not distract from it.
2. Relevance: Use expletives to enhance the structure or emphasis of your sentence. Avoid overusing them, as this can make writing seem redundant or convoluted.
3. Natural Flow: Incorporate expletives in a way that feels natural within the context of your writing. This helps maintain a smooth and engaging narrative.

Examples and Exercises

1. Examples in Context:
• There were several exciting events during the festival, including Tolu's performance.
• It was clear from the start that Ijeoma would be a strong candidate for the scholarship.
2. Exercises:
• Fill in the blanks with appropriate expletives:
• ___ is a problem with the scheduling that needs to be addressed immediately.
• ___ is a beautiful view from the top of the hill where Ifeoma and her friends went hiking.
3. Construct sentences using expletives:
• Use "There" to introduce a sentence where the real subject is a new policy being implemented.
• Use "It" to describe the weather on a day when you and your classmates had an outdoor activity.

By understanding and practising the use of expletives, students can enhance their writing skills, making their sentences more structured and impactful. The ability to use expletives effectively will aid in creating clearer and more engaging narratives, improving both their written and spoken communication.