its - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
its Word Meanings
- referring to a thing previously mentioned
- used to refer to an animal or object
- used to indicate a situation or condition
its Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
its Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪt/
US
/ɪt/
its Word Etymology
The word 'it' has roots in Old English 'hit', which comes from Proto-Germanic '*hita'. Picture a child pointing at an object and saying 'it' with curiosity, illustrating the very essence of identifying and relating to things around us.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I pick up a cup and move it to the edge of the table. The cup sits there, and I sense I will use it to talk about that thing later. I adjust my pace, and the word it slips into my sentence with a natural ease. In real talk, I just say it to keep the flow going when I am pointing to the cup.
Real Context
English uses it as a neutral, singular pronoun to refer to a thing already mentioned or obvious from context, and also as a dummy subject in weather expressions, such as it is raining, or when the real subject is delayed or unknown. In conversation, it helps avoid repeating a noun and keeps sentences flowing. Learners often trip over whether to use it or repeat the noun, and they may try to assign gender or animate meanings to it that English does not require. Remember that it cannot refer to a plural noun and the antecedent must be clear.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use it for a singular, previously mentioned or obvious object.
- 2) It can be a dummy subject in weather expressions.
- 3) Do not refer to plural nouns with it.
- 4) If the antecedent is unclear, repeat or specify the noun.
- 5) Avoid overusing it when the noun is already explicit.
Common Misconceptions
- It always refers to a person
- It can replace any noun, even when the antecedent is unclear
- It has a gender
- It is only used for weather
- It is used for plural nouns
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Practice identifying clear antecedents before using it
- Listen for weather phrases to hear it in context
- Try replacing a noun with it in simple sentences
- Avoid translating it directly from your language
- Read aloud to hear natural flows with it
- Check whether it could refer to more than one item
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'its' used correctly?
A.The cat played with it's toy.
B.The dog wagged it's tail.
C.Its raining outside.
D.The tree shed it's leaves.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'its' in meaning?
A.Yours
B.His
C.Hers
D.Ours
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'its'?
A.Our
B.Their
C.My
D.Your
Step 5: Mastery
In a sentence about a cat, provide a real-life context where 'its' would be used.
A.The cat groomed her whiskers.
B.The cat purred with its eyes closed.
C.The cat chased the bird with his feathers.
D.The cat barked loudly.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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