Have you ever heard the phrase “it’s said that” or “some people believe”? These are examples of impersonal expressions. An impersonal expression is a way of speaking or writing in a way that distances yourself from the idea or opinion being presented. It’s used to make statements sound less subjective and more objective, often making them appear more credible or authoritative.
Impersonal expressions are commonly used in academic writing, scientific research, or news reporting where objectivity is highly valued. They are also used in everyday conversations to soften the impact of an opinion or to avoid offending someone. It’s a convenient way of expressing ideas without taking a personal stance on a particular topic. However, it’s important to use impersonal expressions appropriately because overuse can reduce the clarity and coherence of your writing.
Impersonal Expressions in English
Impersonal expressions are phrases that do not refer to a specific person or group of people. These expressions are commonly used in English, and they help to make the language more objective and informative. In this article, we will explore some of the most common impersonal expressions used in English.
Examples of Impersonal Expressions
- It is said that…
- It is believed that…
- It is important to note that…
- It is clear that…
- It is evident that…
- It is obvious that…
- It is suggested that…
As you can see from the examples above, impersonal expressions in English typically begin with the word “it” and are followed by a form of the verb “to be” (is, was, has been, etc.) and a descriptive adjective (said, believed, important, clear, etc.) or a verb in the past participle form (suggested, indicated). These expressions are used to make statements that are not attributed to any specific person or group.
Using Impersonal Expressions in Writing
Impersonal expressions are commonly used in academic and formal writing, as they help writers to convey information objectively and without bias. For example:
“It is widely believed that climate change is caused by human activity.”
In this sentence, the impersonal expression “it is widely believed” allows the writer to express their opinion without attributing it to any specific group or individual.
Common Uses of Impersonal Expressions
Impersonal expressions are commonly used in a variety of situations, including:
| Use | Example |
|---|---|
| Reported speech | “It was reported that the company lost $1 million last year.” |
| Generalizations | “It is often said that laughter is the best medicine.” |
| Objective statements | “It is clear that the company needs to make some changes.” |
By using impersonal expressions, writers can convey information in an informative and objective way, without attributing opinions or statements to any specific person or group. This is particularly useful in situations where neutrality is important, such as in academic writing or journalism.
Examples of Impersonal Expressions
Impersonal expressions are phrases that are used to express a general or vague idea, without specifically referring to a person, place, or thing. They are often used when discussing general truths, opinions, or ideas.
One common example of an impersonal expression is “It is said that…” This is a way to pass along information without identifying a specific source. Another example is “It seems that…”, which is used to express an opinion or observation without attributing it to a specific person.
Here are some other examples of impersonal expressions:
- “It is commonly known that…”
- “It is believed that…”
- “It is important to note that…”
Using impersonal expressions can be useful in a variety of situations. They can be particularly helpful when discussing controversial topics or when making generalizations. However, it is important to be careful when using impersonal expressions, as they can sometimes come across as vague or unconvincing.
Here is a table that summarizes some common impersonal expressions and their uses:
| Expression | Use |
|---|---|
| It is said that… | To pass along information without identifying a specific source |
| It seems that… | To express an opinion or observation without attributing it to a specific person |
| It is commonly known that… | To express a widely held belief or idea |
| It is believed that… | To express a personal belief or opinion without attributing it to a specific person |
| It is important to note that… | To draw attention to a particular point or detail |
Overall, impersonal expressions can be a useful tool for expressing general ideas or opinions without attributing them to a specific person or source. By using these expressions, speakers and writers can convey information and ideas in a way that is both effective and non-threatening.
Differences between Impersonal and Personal Expressions
When it comes to communication, there are two types of expressions that are common: impersonal and personal expressions. Understanding the differences between these two expressions is important as it can have a significant impact on the way you communicate with others.
- Impersonal expressions are used to talk about things in a general manner. These expressions do not involve any specific person or people and are not directed towards anyone in particular. Examples of impersonal expressions include “It is important to exercise regularly” or “One should always be prepared for emergencies”.
- Personal expressions, on the other hand, involve speaking directly to someone or referring to specific people or things. These expressions are more direct and can help establish a personal connection between the speaker and listener. Examples of personal expressions include “You should drink lots of water every day” or “Our team worked hard to win the championship”.
One of the main differences between the two is how they are received by the listener. Impersonal expressions can come across as less engaging or direct, which can sometimes result in the listener feeling disconnected or less interested. Personal expressions, on the other hand, can help build rapport and make the listener feel understood and validated.
Another important point to note is that impersonal expressions are often used in a more formal setting, such as in academic writing or certain types of professional communication. Personal expressions, on the other hand, are more commonly used in everyday conversation or informal settings.
Ultimately, it is important to choose the appropriate expression based on the context and purpose of the communication. Whether you opt for an impersonal or personal expression, being mindful of how your message is received is crucial in creating effective communication.
| Impersonal Expressions | Personal Expressions |
|---|---|
| Talks about things in general manner | Speaks directly to someone or refers to specific people/things |
| Less engaging/direct | Helps build rapport and makes listener feel understood and validated |
| More commonly used in formal settings | More commonly used in everyday conversation or informal settings |
In summary, choosing between impersonal and personal expressions depends on the context and purpose of the communication. Being aware of the differences between the two and using them appropriately can help create effective communication that connects with your listener.
Benefits of Using Impersonal Expressions in Writing
Impersonal expressions can bring multiple benefits to your writing. Here are some of the advantages of using them:
- Clarity: Impersonal expressions allow you to express your ideas in a clear and concise way. By avoiding personal pronouns, your writing will sound more objective and straightforward.
- Impartiality: Impersonal expressions can help you avoid biased language and keep a neutral tone in your writing. This is particularly useful in academic or scientific writing, where objectivity is essential.
- Professionalism: Using impersonal expressions can make your writing sound more professional and authoritative. It gives your writing a sense of formality and seriousness, making it suitable for business or legal documents.
Examples of Impersonal Expressions
Here are some examples of impersonal expressions that you can use in your writing:
- It is believed that…
- It can be argued that…
- It is important to note that…
- There is evidence that…
- It has been suggested that…
How to Use Impersonal Expressions
The key to using impersonal expressions effectively is to choose the right ones for your purpose and context. You should also avoid overusing them, as this can make your writing sound robotic and impersonal. Here are some tips to help you use impersonal expressions:
- Use them to express general statements, facts, or opinions that are widely accepted or supported.
- Avoid using them in personal narratives, where the use of first-person pronouns is more appropriate.
- Consider your audience and the purpose of your writing when deciding whether to use impersonal expressions. They may not always be the best choice.
Impersonal Expressions in Action
Here is an example of a paragraph that uses impersonal expressions:
| Original Paragraph: | Revised Paragraph: |
| As a teacher, I believe that it is important to establish a good rapport with your students. You should try to get to know them on a personal level and show that you care about their success. | It is generally believed that establishing a good rapport with students is important for their success. One way to do this is by getting to know them on a personal level and demonstrating your interest in their progress. |
In this example, the use of impersonal expressions makes the paragraph sound more objective and authoritative. It also avoids making the paragraph too personal or subjective.
Common Mistakes in Using Impersonal Expressions
Impersonal expressions are commonly used in academic writing, as well as in professional communication. They are useful in expressing opinions, making generalizations, and talking about abstract concepts. However, using impersonal expressions incorrectly can lead to confusion and ambiguity. Here are some common mistakes in using impersonal expressions:
- Using first-person pronouns: Impersonal expressions are meant to convey objectivity, and using first-person pronouns can indicate subjectivity. For example, saying “I believe that” instead of “It is believed that” can weaken the argument and undermine the credibility of the writer.
- Using passive voice excessively: While passive voice is useful in emphasizing the action rather than the actor, using it excessively can create confusion. For example, saying “Mistakes were made” instead of “I made mistakes” can obscure the responsibility and make it difficult to identify who is accountable.
- Using vague or ambiguous language: Impersonal expressions should be clear and precise. Using vague or ambiguous language can cause confusion and miscommunication. For example, saying “Some people think that” instead of “Studies show that” can obscure the source of the information and make it difficult to verify.
It is important to use impersonal expressions correctly in order to communicate effectively and convey objectivity. Here are some additional tips:
Avoid using personal anecdotes or opinions in academic writing.
Be specific and precise when using impersonal expressions.
Use active voice when possible, but use passive voice when it is necessary to emphasize the action rather than the actor.
| Mistake | Corrected |
|---|---|
| “I believe that global warming is a myth.” | “It is widely accepted that global warming is caused by human activity.” |
| “Mistakes were made.” | “I made mistakes.” |
| “Some people think that vaccines are dangerous.” | “Studies show that vaccines are safe and effective.” |
By avoiding these common mistakes and following these tips, it is possible to use impersonal expressions effectively and communicate clearly.
How to Teach Impersonal Expressions to English Learners
Impersonal expressions are phrases or sentences that have no specific subject or refer to a general, undefined subject. These expressions are commonly used in English, and it is important for English learners to master them to communicate effectively. Here are some tips for teaching impersonal expressions to English learners:
- Introduce the concept of impersonal expressions by providing examples to your students. Common impersonal expressions include “It is important to,” “There is/are,” and “One should.”
- Encourage your students to identify impersonal expressions in the context of reading materials, conversations, and listening activities. This can help them understand when, where, and how to use these expressions.
- Explain the grammar rules behind impersonal expressions. Typically, these expressions are followed by a clause beginning with “that” or “to” and the base form of the verb. Provide plenty of examples and practice exercises to help your students master this concept.
Next, have your students practice using impersonal expressions in various situations. Role-play activities, group discussions, and writing exercises can all be effective ways to help your students use these expressions in context.
It is important to note that understanding and using impersonal expressions comes with practice and exposure to the language. Encourage your students to read and listen to English-language materials as much as possible to develop their comprehension and communication skills.
Common Impersonal Expressions in English
- “It is important to”
- “It is necessary to”
- “It is clear that”
- “There is/are”
- “It is believed that”
- “It is possible that”
Practice Exercise: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following sentences with a suitable impersonal expression:
| Sentence | Impersonal expression |
|---|---|
| We have to take action now. | _______ is necessary. |
| I think many people agree with me. | _______ is believed. |
| The experts say that we need more funding for research. | _______ is clear. |
| There are a lot of benefits to learning a second language. | _______ are many advantages. |
Encourage your students to practice using impersonal expressions in both spoken and written English. With regular practice and exposure to the language, they will become more comfortable and confident in their communication skills.
Advanced Impersonal Expressions for Academic Writing
In academic writing, it is important to convey information and ideas in an objective and impersonal manner. This can be achieved by using advanced impersonal expressions, which help to remove the author’s personal bias and opinion from the text, while maintaining a professional tone. Here are some advanced impersonal expressions to use in your academic writing:
- It is commonly accepted that… This expression is useful for introducing widely-accepted ideas or beliefs without attributing them to a specific author or source.
- It has been demonstrated that… This expression is useful for introducing research or evidence that supports a particular idea or argument.
- It is generally agreed that… This expression is similar to “it is commonly accepted that,” but emphasizes agreement among a group of individuals or within a particular field of study.
By using these expressions, you can convey information and ideas in a neutral and objective manner, while also positioning yourself as knowledgeable and well-read on the topic. Additionally, utilizing these expressions can help to elevate the professionalism and credibility of your writing.
It is important to note that the use of advanced impersonal expressions should be balanced with the use of personal voice and opinion in your writing. While academic writing should maintain an objective tone, it is also important to engage with the material and present a clear argument or perspective. Finding the right balance between impersonal expressions and personal voice can be a challenge, but with practice, you can achieve a writing style that is both professional and engaging.
Examples of Advanced Impersonal Expressions in Academic Writing
Take a look at the following examples of advanced impersonal expressions:
| Personal expression | Advanced impersonal expression |
| I think that… | It could be argued that… |
| In my opinion… | It is widely believed that… |
| I believe that… | Research has shown that… |
As you can see, the advanced impersonal expressions help to remove the author’s personal bias and present information in a neutral and objective manner.
What is impersonal expression?
1. What does impersonal expression mean?
In linguistics, impersonal expression refers to language that does not directly attribute an action to a specific individual or group.
2. What are some examples of impersonal expressions?
Some common examples include phrases like “it is said that” or “it is believed that.”
3. Why do we use impersonal expressions?
Impersonal expressions are often used to avoid assigning blame or responsibility for a specific action or event.
4. Are there different types of impersonal expressions?
Yes, there are a variety of different types, including the passive voice, indefinite pronouns, and the use of modal verbs.
5. Can impersonal expressions be used in all types of writing?
While they are often used in more formal writing styles, impersonal expressions can be incorporated into any type of writing.
6. How can I improve my use of impersonal expressions?
Practice incorporating them into your writing and pay attention to the types of impersonal expressions used in other texts.
7. Is it ever inappropriate to use impersonal expressions?
In some cases, using impersonal expressions can be confusing or misleading. It is important to use them thoughtfully and appropriately.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for taking the time to learn about impersonal expressions. Incorporating them into your writing can add a level of professionalism and formality. Remember to use them appropriately and practice incorporating them into your writing. Visit again for more helpful writing tips!