Fronting

Exercises

Explanation

Fronting — B2 Explanation

1. What is fronting?

Normal order: We enjoyed the second half of the film the most.

Fronted: The second half of the film, we enjoyed the most.

The meaning stays the same, but the focus changes.

2. Fronting with comparisons and emphasis

We often front comparative or superlative expressions.

Examples:

The introduction was confusing. Much clearer was the final explanation.

We visited several museums. The most impressive was the science centre.

3. Fronting with so + adjective

Used to strongly emphasise degree or intensity.

Examples:

So difficult was the exam that many students ran out of time.

So loud was the music that conversation was impossible.

4. Fronting with adverbial phrases

Adverbials of place, time, or manner can be placed at the beginning.

Examples:

At the back of the hall stood a single empty chair.

Near the entrance were several volunteers giving directions.

This structure is especially common with verbs of position such as stand, sit, lie, remain.

5. Fronting with infinitive phrases

We can move an infinitive phrase to the front to highlight purpose or intention.

Examples:

To finish the report on time became her main priority.

To stay calm was the hardest part of the situation.

6. Fronting without to (formal or dramatic style)

In short statements, the infinitive may appear without to for emphasis.

Examples:

He promised to tell the truth — and tell the truth he did.

She said she would succeed — and succeed she did.

7. Fronting objects for contrast or clarity

An object may be placed at the front to highlight contrast.

Examples:

He enjoys team sports, but individual competitions he avoids.

She follows many news sources. Social media, however, she trusts the least.