Why is this? This excerpt is from Practical English Usage book: We can use it as a preparatory subject or object for an -ing form (►268-269). It’s nice being with you. I thought it pointless starting before eight o’clock. This is common with any/no good, any/no use and (not) worth (►634). It’s no good talking to him - he never listens. Is it any use expecting them to be on time? It's no use his/him apologising - I will neverforgive him. I didn’t think it worth complaining about the meal. ---------- My question is are "I thought it pointless..." and "I didn't think it worth complaining about the meal" natural? I've never come across such usage in conversation before. Would it sound better if you said: I thought it was pointless... I didn't think it was worth complaining...?