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Verie Posted 13 years ago
Grammar
Antecedent
How do I tell what the antecedent is for the pronoun 'it':
"If the machine leaks any liquid, it should be examined carefully."
Should I assume that a 'it' will always refer to the closest non-pronoun noun?
"If the machine leaks any liquid, it should be examined carefully."
Should I assume that a 'it' will always refer to the closest non-pronoun noun?
Top answer
In terms of grammar, yes, the closest previous. is the rule of thumb. But you also need to consider meaning.
- In terms of grammar, yes, the closest previous.
- is the rule of thumb.
- But you also need to consider meaning.
- eg If a tiger bites your throat, it wants to eat you.
- eg If a tiger bites your throat, it will bleed.
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1 Answers
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In terms of grammar, yes, the closest previous. is the rule of thumb.
But you also need to consider meaning.
eg If a tiger bites your throat, it wants to eat you.
eg If a tiger bites your throat, it will bleed.
But you also need to consider meaning.
eg If a tiger bites your throat, it wants to eat you.
eg If a tiger bites your throat, it will bleed.
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