15c. Inverted order

15cTry inverting sentences occasionally.

A sentence is inverted if it does not follow the normal subject-verb-object pattern (see 47c). Many inversions sound artificial and should be avoided except in the most formal contexts. But if an inversion sounds natural, it can provide a welcome touch of variety.

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In the revision, the subject, hearts, appears after the verb, were set. Notice that the two parts of the verb are also inverted—and separated from each other (Set . . . were)—without any awkwardness or loss of meaning.

Inverted sentences are used for emphasis as well as for variety (see 14f).