Talking about feelings with "That" (Evaluative That-Clauses)
Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds
Use 'that' clauses to link a specific fact or event to an emotional reaction or evaluative judgment.
- Follow adjectives of emotion: 'I am delighted that you came.'
- Follow nouns of judgment: 'The fact that he lied is shocking.'
- Use 'should' for extra emphasis: 'It's strange that she should say that.'
Overview
You can say your feelings about a fact. The shop is closed. I am sad that it is closed.
This helps you speak well at work. It shows you know English well.
Instead of relying on simpler phrases like I think it's good that..., you can use more precise and integrated language, making your English sound more natural and authoritative.
How This Grammar Works
Formation Pattern
clear, obvious, evident, plain, true) | It was clear that the initial plan was not working. | States a conclusion drawn from evidence. |
When To Use It
- In Academic and Analytical Writing: Use the
It is + ADJ + that...structure to present your analysis with authority. Instead of writingI think it's important that the study controlled for variables, writeIt is significant that the study controlled for variables. This shifts the focus from your personal belief to the objective importance of the fact, making your argument sound more credible.
- In Professional Communication: The
Subject + be + ADJ + that...pattern is perfect for expressing professional sentiment clearly and politely.We are pleased that the project was completed ahead of scheduleis a standard and effective way to give positive feedback. Similarly,I'm concerned that we haven't received the payment yetis a firm but polite way to raise an issue.
- To Express Nuanced Personal Opinions: This grammar allows for a wide spectrum of feeling. Instead of a simple
I'm happy, you can sayI'm relieved that the test is overorI'm thrilled that you're getting married. Each choice of adjective adds a precise layer of meaning to your reaction.
- To Manage Formality (Omitting
that): The conjunctionthatis the formal glue of the clause. In formal writing, always include it for clarity.It is imperative that these procedures are followed.In informal conversation or text messages, it's very common to omit it, especially when the subject is a pronoun.I'm so glad (that) you could make it.Be aware that omittingthatcan occasionally cause ambiguity, so when in doubt, especially in writing, it's safer to include it.
Common Mistakes
- 1Forgetting the Subjunctive Mood
- Mistake:
It is essential that everyone is on the same page. - Correction:
It is essential that everyone be on the same page. - Why? This is a holdover from older English grammar that has become a marker of formal, educated style. Your brain wants to conjugate the verb, but the rule here demands the base form.
- 1Confusing
that-clausewithto-infinitive
It's important to finish the project.(Focuses on the action itself; a general statement.)It's important that you finish the project.(Focuses on the person responsible; more specific and direct.)- Mistake:
It's important that to finish the project.(Mixing the two structures.) - Correction: Choose one structure. Use the
to-infinitivefor a general truth and thethat-clauseto specify the person/subject who must perform the action.
- 1Incorrect Word Order with
find
- Mistake:
I find that it's strange that he didn't call.orI find strange that he didn't call. - Correction:
I find it strange that he didn't call. - Why? In this idiom,
findis a transitive verb,itis the grammatical object, andstrangeis an object complement. Thethat-clauseexplains whatitrefers to.
- 1Using an Adjective of Personal Feeling in an Impersonal Structure
- Mistake:
It is pleased that you are coming. - Correction:
I am pleased that you are coming.orIt is pleasing that you are coming. - Why? A situation or fact can be
pleasing(causing pleasure), but only a person can bepleased(feeling pleasure). Be mindful of the difference between-edadjectives (describing feelings) and-ingadjectives (describing qualities).
Real Conversations
Textbook examples are clean, but real-world usage is often faster and less formal. Notice how that is frequently omitted in speech.
Scenario 1
Subject
Hi Team,
Just a quick update. We've successfully migrated the user database to the new server.
I'm relieved (that) this phase is complete, as it was our biggest risk.
It's crucial that everyone test their access to the new database by EOD tomorrow so we can address any issues immediately. I find it encouraging that the initial tests have all come back positive.
Thanks,
Maria
Scenario 2
Alex
Ben
Alex
Ben
Scenario 3
Manager
Quick FAQ
- Can I always omit
that?
- What's the difference between
I'm happy that...andI'm happy about...?
- Is the subjunctive really necessary?
- Why do people say
I find it funny that...instead ofI think it's funny that...?
I find it... suggests a more personal, subjective discovery or judgment. It's as if you've considered the evidence and come to a personal conclusion. I think... can sometimes be a more general opinion. I find it... often carries a slightly more analytical or detached tone.Common Evaluative Structures
| Structure Type | Main Clause | Connector | Subordinate Clause | Example |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Adjective-led
|
I am relieved
|
that
|
the test is over.
|
I am relieved that the test is over.
|
|
Noun-led
|
The news
|
that
|
he won was great.
|
The news that he won was great.
|
|
Extraposed (It)
|
It is lucky
|
that
|
we found the keys.
|
It is lucky that we found the keys.
|
|
Formal (Should)
|
It is odd
|
that
|
she should say that.
|
It is odd that she should say that.
|
|
Subjunctive
|
It is vital
|
that
|
he be present.
|
It is vital that he be present.
|
Omission of 'That' in Informal Speech
| Full Form (Formal) | Short Form (Informal) | Context |
|---|---|---|
|
I am glad that you came.
|
I'm glad you came.
|
Friends/Family
|
|
It is a pity that it's raining.
|
Pity it's raining.
|
Casual observation
|
|
I am sure that he is right.
|
I'm sure he's right.
|
Everyday talk
|
Meanings
A grammatical structure where a subordinate clause starting with 'that' functions as a complement to an adjective or noun, expressing a reaction to the information in that clause.
Adjective Complements
Using 'that' after adjectives like 'happy', 'sad', 'surprised', or 'aware' to explain the cause of the feeling.
“I'm so glad that you could make it to the party.”
“She was unaware that the meeting had been moved.”
Extraposed Evaluative Clauses
Starting a sentence with 'It is [adjective] that...' to provide an objective-sounding evaluation of a fact.
“It is vital that we remain calm during the transition.”
“It's interesting that he never mentioned his previous job.”
Noun Complements
Using 'that' after abstract nouns like 'fact', 'idea', 'notion', or 'possibility' to define the content of that noun.
“The fact that she won didn't surprise anyone.”
“I hate the idea that we might never see them again.”
Reference Table
| Form | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
Affirmative
|
Subj + be + Adj + that + Clause
|
I am certain that he will win.
|
|
Negative (Main)
|
Subj + be + not + Adj + that + Clause
|
I am not sure that this is correct.
|
|
Negative (Clause)
|
Subj + be + Adj + that + Clause (neg)
|
I am glad that it didn't rain.
|
|
Question
|
Be + Subj + Adj + that + Clause?
|
Are you annoyed that I'm late?
|
|
Extraposed
|
It + be + Adj + that + Clause
|
It is strange that they left.
|
|
Noun Complement
|
The + Noun + that + Clause + Verb
|
The fact that he lied is the problem.
|
|
Putative Should
|
It + be + Adj + that + Subj + should + V
|
It's funny that you should say that.
|
Formality Spectrum
It is a source of great pleasure that you have joined us this evening. (Social gathering)
I am very glad that you could come. (Social gathering)
So glad you made it! (Social gathering)
Stoked you're here, man! (Social gathering)
The Anatomy of an Evaluative That-Clause
The Feeling (Main)
- Adjectives Happy, Sad, Surprised
- Nouns Fact, Idea, Rumor
The Bridge
- That The connector
The Event (Subordinate)
- Subject + Verb The actual thing that happened
Formal vs. Informal Evaluative Clauses
Should I use 'That' or 'Which'?
Are you describing a noun or defining its content?
Does the clause follow an adjective of emotion?
Common Evaluative Adjectives
Positive
- • Delighted
- • Relieved
- • Glad
- • Proud
Negative
- • Disappointed
- • Annoyed
- • Concerned
- • Sorry
Surprise
- • Amazed
- • Shocked
- • Baffled
- • Surprised
Examples by Level
I am happy that you are here.
I am sad that it is raining.
He is glad that you like the food.
Are you sure that she is home?
I'm sorry that I forgot your birthday.
We are afraid that the shop is closed.
I think that he is a good teacher.
She is surprised that you are early.
It is important that we arrive on time.
I don't like the idea that we have to pay extra.
Are you aware that the rules have changed?
It's a shame that you can't come to the wedding.
I am concerned that the project is falling behind schedule.
The fact that he didn't call is very strange.
It is highly likely that the prices will increase next month.
She was delighted that her hard work was finally recognized.
It is regrettable that the board should have reached such a hasty decision.
The mere suggestion that he was involved in the scandal is preposterous.
I find it baffling that they still haven't addressed the underlying issue.
We must not overlook the possibility that the data has been tampered with.
It is imperative that the witness be protected at all costs.
The contention that economic growth is always beneficial is now being challenged.
It is somewhat ironic that the very technology designed to connect us has made us feel more isolated.
I am not unmindful of the fact that this proposal requires significant investment.
Easily Confused
Learners often think every 'that' clause is a relative clause describing a noun.
Both use 'that' clauses, but reported speech follows verbs of saying (say, tell), not adjectives of feeling.
Learners mix up 'I am so happy that...' (Result) with 'I am happy that...' (Complement).
Common Mistakes
I am happy because you are here.
I am happy that you are here.
I am sure which he is coming.
I am sure that he is coming.
It is important that arrive on time.
It is important that we arrive on time.
It is strange that he would say that.
It is strange that he should say that.
Sentence Patterns
I am ___ that ___.
It is ___ that ___ should ___.
The ___ that ___ is ___.
I find it ___ that ___.
Real World Usage
I am confident that my background in marketing will benefit your team.
So happy you're coming tonight!
The fact that the hypothesis was disproven suggests a need for further research.
It is disappointing that the service was so slow.
Can't believe that it's already been a year!
It is feared that many people remain trapped in the building.
Drop 'That' to sound natural
Avoid 'Which'
Use 'Should' for Politeness
The 'It' Dummy
Smart Tips
Switch from 'I think that...' to 'It is evident that...' or 'The fact that...'.
Recognize it as the 'putative should' used for emotional emphasis.
Try replacing 'that' with 'which'. If it sounds like garbage, it's a complement clause.
Delete the 'that' and the 'It is'.
Pronunciation
The Weak 'That'
In the middle of a sentence, 'that' is usually unstressed and pronounced with a schwa /ðət/.
Intonation of Evaluation
The main stress usually falls on the evaluative adjective (e.g., 'SURPRISED'), while the 'that' clause has a rising-falling intonation.
Evaluative Peak
It's ↗VITAL that we ↘leave.
Emphasizes the importance of the action.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Remember 'FACT': Feelings, Adjectives, Complements, That.
Visual Association
Imagine a bridge made of the word 'THAT' connecting a giant heart (your feelings) to a television screen showing a scene (the fact).
Rhyme
When a feeling needs a reason why, use a 'that' clause to reach the sky.
Story
A king was so 'surprised that' his crown was missing. He hated 'the fact that' a mouse had taken it. 'It was lucky that' the mouse was slow.
Word Web
Challenge
Write three sentences about your day using 'I am glad that...', 'It is strange that...', and 'The fact that...'.
Cultural Notes
The use of 'should' in evaluative clauses (e.g., 'It's funny that you should say that') is a hallmark of polite, slightly indirect British speech.
Americans are more likely to use the subjunctive in 'that' clauses following adjectives of necessity or urgency.
Using 'The fact that...' is a standard way to introduce evidence without sounding too personal or biased.
The use of 'that' as a conjunction (complementizer) evolved from the Old English demonstrative pronoun 'þæt'.
Conversation Starters
Are you surprised that technology has changed so much in ten years?
Do you think it's important that children learn a second language early?
How do you feel about the fact that remote work is becoming the norm?
Is it regrettable that traditional crafts are dying out?
Journal Prompts
Common Mistakes
Test Yourself
I am delighted ___ you decided to join us.
Find and fix the mistake:
The fact which he failed the exam is very sad.
It is essential that he ___ (be) informed immediately.
Arrange the words in the correct order:
All words placed
Click words above to build the sentence
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
He resigned, and that surprised everyone.
In informal speech, 'that' can often be omitted in evaluative clauses.
A: Why are you so upset? B: I'm just annoyed ___.
Score: /8
Practice Exercises
8 exercisesI am delighted ___ you decided to join us.
Find and fix the mistake:
The fact which he failed the exam is very sad.
It is essential that he ___ (be) informed immediately.
strange / that / should / it / he / is / say / that
Match the following:
He resigned, and that surprised everyone.
In informal speech, 'that' can often be omitted in evaluative clauses.
A: Why are you so upset? B: I'm just annoyed ___.
Score: /8
Practice Bank
12 exercisesShe feels strongly ___ her team delivered an excellent presentation.
We are confident what the new marketing strategy will succeed.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
Translate into English: 'Es sorprendente que el concierto se agotó tan rápido.'
Put the words in order:
Match the adjective with its suitable introductory phrase:
It was regrettable ___ they missed the opportunity to present.
Translate into English: 'Creemos que es fundamental que los estudiantes participen.'
Arrange these words into a sentence:
Is essential that we leave now.
Choose the best option:
Match the emotion with a suitable adjective:
Score: /12
FAQ (8)
Almost always in informal speech. However, in formal writing or when the 'that' clause is long and complex, keep it to help the reader follow the structure.
'I'm happy that you're here' focuses on the fact itself as a complement to your happiness. 'I'm happy because you're here' focuses on the cause-and-effect relationship.
Some style guides suggest avoiding it if you can (e.g., 'That he lied is sad' instead of 'The fact that he lied is sad'), but in C1 level academic writing, it is a very standard way to introduce evidence.
Use it to express surprise, disbelief, or a strong emotional reaction to something that seems unlikely or strange. It's more common in British English.
No, only after 'evaluative' adjectives (feelings, certainty, necessity). You can't say 'I am tall that...'.
In American English, it's very common ('It is vital he be there'). In British English, 'should' or the indicative is more common ('It is vital that he is/should be there').
It's the process of using 'It' as a placeholder at the start of a sentence to move a heavy 'that' clause to the end, making the sentence easier to process.
Because 'the fact' isn't being described by a relative clause; the 'that' clause *is* the fact. They are one and the same.
Scaffolded Practice
1
2
3
4
Mastery Progress
Needs Practice
Improving
Strong
Mastered
In Other Languages
que + subjuntivo
Spanish uses the subjunctive for emotion; English uses the indicative or 'should'.
que + subjonctif
French requires the subjunctive for almost all evaluative clauses.
dass-Satz
German has strict verb-final word order in the 'dass' clause.
こと (koto) / の (no)
Japanese uses nominalization rather than a conjunction like 'that'.
أنّ (anna)
Arabic often requires a preposition before the 'that' equivalent.
Juxtaposition / 的 (de)
Chinese lacks a direct equivalent to the 'that' complementizer.
Learning Path
Prerequisites
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