"What is it in a sentence" refers to the grammatical construction where a question or clause is embedded within a larger sentence, often to clarify meaning, express doubt, or show ambiguity. This structure appears in both formal writing and spoken language, serving as a tool for precision and rhetorical effect.
This construction functions as a dependent clause nested inside a main clause. It typically begins with "what is," followed by a subject and verb, then continues with the rest of the sentence. The embedded question may modify a noun, act as a complement, or serve as a parenthetical clarification. Its placement alters tone and focus, making it essential in detailed communication.
For example: "I don't know what is it in a sentence that makes people pause." Here, the embedded clause "what is it in a sentence" acts as the object of the verb "know." The sentence uses the construction to reflect uncertainty about a linguistic phenomenon, not to ask a literal question.
The phrase "what is it in a sentence" operates as a noun clause-a group of words functioning as a single noun. It begins with a wh-word ("what"), followed by a verb ("is"), a pronoun ("it"), and a prepositional phrase ("in a sentence"). Together, they form a complete thought that serves as a grammatical unit within a larger sentence.
When used correctly, the clause maintains subject-verb agreement and proper word order. In standard English, the auxiliary verb "is" precedes the subject "it," and the preposition "in" introduces the location or context. This sequence ensures clarity and avoids confusion between the embedded question and the main clause.
Consider this example: "She asked what is it in a sentence that triggers emotional response." The embedded clause "what is it in a sentence" functions as the direct object of "asked." Without proper internal structure, the sentence would lose coherence. Reordering it as "what it is in a sentence" would be ungrammatical in formal contexts.
This construction appears in several forms depending on function. It may express inquiry, skepticism, or introspection. In academic writing, it clarifies conceptual boundaries. In dialogue, it signals hesitation or curiosity.
| Type | Function | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Interrogative | Asks for clarification | "What is it in a sentence that makes it memorable?" |
| Explanatory | Identifies key elements | "The rule is simple: what is it in a sentence that changes meaning?" |
| Rhetorical | Emphasizes a point | "What is it in a sentence that makes us feel seen?" |
Each type serves a distinct purpose. Interrogative uses pose questions to engage readers. Explanatory forms define concepts. Rhetorical versions invite reflection without expecting an answer.
A frequent error is treating "what is it in a sentence" as a standalone question. It is not. It must be part of a larger sentence. Writing "What is it in a sentence?" as a complete sentence is incorrect unless followed by a main clause.
Another mistake is reversing word order. For example, "what it is in a sentence" is acceptable in informal speech but violates standard grammar rules in formal writing. The correct form requires the auxiliary verb before the subject: "what is it."
According to the *Cambridge Grammar of English* (2017), embedded questions must follow the same syntactic rules as independent questions. This includes subject-verb inversion in interrogative clauses. Deviating from this structure leads to awkward or ambiguous phrasing.
In journalism, this structure clarifies complex ideas. A 2022 article in *The Guardian* used the phrase to analyze political rhetoric: "What is it in a sentence that makes voters trust a candidate's promise?" The sentence frames a psychological concept using a grammatically sound embedded question.
In literature, authors use it to convey internal conflict. In Toni Morrison's *Beloved*, a character reflects: "I wonder what is it in a sentence that lets someone hear their mother's voice." The sentence embeds a question to explore memory and trauma, demonstrating how syntax shapes emotional impact.
Here's a fully worked example: Original: "He couldn't understand what is it in a sentence that makes it feel true." Revised for correctness: "He couldn't understand what it is in a sentence that makes it feel true." The change removes the unnecessary inversion, aligning with standard English syntax. The revised version is clearer and grammatically accurate.
This construction differs from similar expressions. "As if in a sentence" implies hypothetical comparison. "As per in a sentence" denotes official reference. "Sentence for those" refers to targeted communication.
For instance, "as if in a sentence" describes a metaphorical state: "She spoke as if in a sentence-precise, closed, final." This phrase doesn't ask a question. It evokes a mood or tone.
Understanding the difference prevents misuse. Confusing "what is it in a sentence" with "as if in a sentence" leads to miscommunication. The former queries meaning; the latter describes manner.
I once observed a student in a writing workshop repeatedly use "what is it in a sentence" as a standalone phrase. After correcting the structure, their essays gained clarity and precision. The fix wasn't just grammatical-it improved their ability to communicate complex ideas.