Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[learner12]

Hello, teachers!!

(1) The clock was rather expensive, but that will last a long time.
(2) The clock was rather expensive, but it will last a long time.

Which is better, (1) or (2)?

Do you have any ideas about when you use "it" and when you use "that"?

Thank you in advance.

[lotus]

Hi Learner12,

1) The clock was rather expensive, but that will last a long time.
2) The clock was rather expensive, but it will last a long time.

Only #2 is correct.

In #1, the first clause states that the clock was expensive. The main idea was that it was costly, so "that" would refer to the cost, which is not what you want. It would mean the the cost lasts a long time.

When you use "it", it is directed more toward the inanimate object clock and not the concept of cost.


--lotus
_________________
War does not make one great --Yoda

[learner12]

Dear lotus,

Thank you so much for your great explanation.

hmm, how to use of "it" and "that" is hard.

Take care and have a nice day!!