Extraposition is a mechanism of syntax that alters word order in such a manner that a relatively "heavy"
constituent appears to the right of its canonical position. Extraposing a constituent results in a
discontinuity and in this regard, it is unlike
shifting, which does not generate a discontinuity. The extraposed constituent is separated from its
governor by one or more words that dominate its governor. Two types of extraposition are acknowledged in theoretical syntax: standard cases where extraposition is optional and
it-extraposition where extraposition is obligatory. Extraposition is motivated in part by a desire to reduce center embedding by increasing right-
branching and thus easing processing, center-embedded structures being more difficult to process. Extraposition occurs frequently in English and related languages.