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Mr Bad Example Posted 10 years ago
Grammar

A comma question, I'm sure!

Hi all!
I'm something off an intruder, looking for the answer to a question I couldn't find elsewhere. I hope nobody minds!
In the following sentence, to what or whom does "its" refer to (the lessor or the developer)? Is there a rule for this?

On Lessors behalf, and at its expense, the developer will contract insurance to protect the unit.

Thanks in advance!
  

Top answer

I imagine it's supposed to refer to the lessor, but it's not completely clear. 'On the lessor's behalf, and at the lessor's expense' is clearer. It's repetitive, but it avoids ambiguity.

  • I imagine it's supposed to refer to the lessor, but it's not completely clear.
  • 'On the lessor's behalf, and at the lessor's expense' is clearer.
  • It's repetitive, but it avoids ambiguity.
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2 Answers
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I imagine it's supposed to refer to the lessor, but it's not completely clear. 'On the lessor's behalf, and at the lessor's expense' is clearer. It's repetitive, but it avoids ambiguity.
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Thanks. I'm inclined to agree with you. However, the actual intention is that 'its' refers to the developer.
that is why I wondered if there was a grammatical rule for this. It's possible the exact same sentence could mean two entirely different things.

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