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Jandi Posted 21 years ago
Grammar

But for

Please tell me if these are correct and common.

1. If there aren't more investment/investments, we can't solve the unemployment problem.
2. [But for, Without] more investment, we can't ...
3. If it is not for more investment, we can't ...

Thank you very much.
  

Top answer

1. If there isn't more investment , we can't solve the unemployment problem. -- INVESTMENT HERE IS AN UNCOUNTABLE ECONOMIC CONCEPT.

— Mister Micawber

  • 1.
  • If there isn't more investment , we can't solve the unemployment problem.
  • -- INVESTMENT HERE IS AN UNCOUNTABLE ECONOMIC CONCEPT.
  • 2.
  • Without more investment, we can't ...
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4 Answers
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1. If there isn't more investment, we can't solve the unemployment problem. -- INVESTMENT HERE IS AN UNCOUNTABLE ECONOMIC CONCEPT.

2. Without more investment, we can't ... -- ONLY 'WITHOUT' WORKS HERE.

3. DOES NOT WORK.
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Please help me again.

How about these sentences?

1. If there were no air, we couldn't breathe.
2. [But for, Without] air, we couldn't breathe.
3. If (it were) not for air, we couldn't breathe.

Thank you very much.
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All OK. The 'but for' form requires the pre-existence of the item or condition-- that's why it does not work in your investment example.


Enjoy the crisp sunshine, Ms. J!
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I've got it!!!
What a secret, surprising truth with "(but) for"!
Thank you very much.

Enjoy the sunshine, too!
Best Wishes!
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