Put It up Front! – Fronting Constructions

Abstract

Fronting (also called topicalization, front-focus, or preposing) is when an element that normally goes in the predicate (eg, an adverb, adverbial phrase, or the direct object) appears at the front of the sentence. Fronting can shift the emphasis of the sentence, and it can improve clarity and coherence. It can also serve an artistic purpose. Fronting is a form of anastrophe, which means any figure of speech in which normal word order is reversed for emphasis or effect. English speakers often front adverbs or adverbial phrases. Poets and songwriters often front predicate complements. Like the use of the passive voice, the fronting of a direct object shifts the focus of the sentence to the direct object of a verb. This article explains how to front predicate elements correctly and how to use this figure of speech to make your writing clear, coherent, and memorable.