Fronting moves a direct object, complement, or subordinate clause to the sentence-initial position to link back to established information or add emphasis, as in this problem, I cannot solve. Unlike inversion triggered by negative adverbials, fronting does not require subject-auxiliary inversion.
Grammar Rule
Fronting moves a direct object, complement, or subordinate clause to the sentence-initial position, ahead of the subject, to link back to established information or add emphasis. Unlike inversion triggered by negative adverbials, fronting does NOT require subject-auxiliary inversion — the subject and verb keep their normal order after the fronted element.
Fronting for Thematic Cohesion: Rules and Examples
| Pattern | Rule | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Fronted object/complement | normal subject-verb order preserved | This problem, I cannot solve. |
| Common error | wrongly inverting as with negative adverbials | This problem, cannot I solve (incorrect) |
Remember: Front an object, complement or clause to connect with previous information or add emphasis, but keep normal subject-verb order — fronting is not the same as inversion.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below using fronting correctly for thematic cohesion. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
C2-48 Fronting for Thematic Cohesion
Click «Start the test» to begin right away — no signup required. You can get a personalized certificate with your name and score at the end, if you want one.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does fronting move to the sentence-initial position?
A direct object, complement, or subordinate clause, as in this problem, I cannot solve.
Does fronting require subject-auxiliary inversion?
No, unlike inversion triggered by negative adverbials.
What order do subject and verb keep after fronting?
Their normal order.
What is a common error with fronting?
Wrongly inverting as with negative adverbials, as in this problem, cannot I solve.