Is It Grammatically Correct to Start a Question with 'It's'?

The answer to this question is both yes and no, depending on the context and the specific structure of the sentence. While it is possible to start a question with 'it's,' it is not the most conventional or standard form. This article delves into the nuances of using 'it's' at the beginning of a question, exploring the rules of English grammar and the subtleties of how it can be used effectively.

Conventional Structure

According to standard English grammar rules, questions typically require the subject to be inverted with the verb. For example:

Correct: It is time.

Correct: Is it time?

Correct: What time is it?

Exceptional Cases

Despite the general rules, starting a question with 'it's' can be considered acceptable in certain situations. These cases typically involve pre-existing questions or scenarios where the sentence structure already contains a subject and verb inversion. Examples include:

Example: It's a complex project, isn't it?

Example: It's not easy to learn a new alphabet, is it?

In these cases, the use of 'it's' followed by the question remains grammatically correct but may not be the most stylistically preferred form. The key is the presence of the inverted subject and verb structure.

Confirmation-Seeking Questions

Another exception involves confirmation-seeking questions, where the speaker is not really inquiring for information but rather seeking agreement or confirmation. For instance:

Example: It’s going to be a long, cold winter in Ontario, isn’t it?

In these scenarios, the sentence structure mimics a typical statement-question hybrid, allowing for the use of 'it's' followed by the questioning phrase.

Spoken vs. Written English

In spoken English, intonation can play a significant role in turning a declarative sentence into a question. However, in written English, the use of proper punctuation is essential. For longer sentences, it is advisable to avoid using such structure unless the intent is clear from the context:

Written Example: It’s polite to say 'thank you' when someone holds the door open for you.

Question Form: Is it polite to say 'thank you' when someone holds the door open for you?

While it is possible to use 'it's' at the beginning of a written question, it can be confusing and may weaken the overall impact of the sentence. This approach is generally more suitable for informal or conversational writing.

Grammatical Correctness

From a grammatical standpoint, starting a question with 'it's' is not inherently incorrect. The contraction 'it's' is simply a shortened form of 'it is,' and it can function as the subject of a question. For instance:

Correct: It's correct grammar to use 'it's' at the start of a sentence.

Moreover, using 'it's' at the beginning of a sentence is something many native English speakers and writers do regularly. It can sound natural and conversational, as long as it is used appropriately and not overdone:

Example: It's polite to say 'thank you' when someone holds the door open for you.

Question Form: Is it polite to say 'thank you' when someone holds the door open for you?

When used sparingly and appropriately, this structure can add a touch of naturalness and conversational flair to writing. However, it should be used with caution, especially in formal or academic contexts.

Conclusion

Starting a question with 'it's' can be done grammatically, though it is not the most conventional form of questioning. Whether or not to use it depends on the context and the intended tone of the writing. For the majority of written English, it is best to adhere to the standard inverted subject and verb structure. Nevertheless, knowing when and how to use 'it's' can enhance the natural flow and readability of your text, making it a valuable tool in your writing arsenal.