For at least a century

Question

"The bronzes have most recently been attributed to the Dutch sculptor Willem Danielsz Van Tetrode and the 19th Century belief the sculptures were by Michelangelo had been dismissed by experts for at least a century." (BBC Webside.)

What does the phrase "for at least a century" mean in this context?

Does it mean that experts have been dismissing the 19th Century belief for the last 100 years?

CalifJim · Accepted Answer

AnonymousWhat does the phrase "for at least a century" mean in this context?

"during a period of 100 years or more"

AnonymousDoes it mean that experts have been dismissing the 19th Century belief for the last 100 years?

Actually, "had been", not "have been". That means a reference point in the past has been established in the text, either explicitly or implicitly. The reference point is probably the recent decision to attribute the sculptures to Michelangelo. So not 'the last 100 years up to now", but "the last 100 years up to that decision".

CJ

Anonymous · Answer

CalifJimActually, "had been", not "have been". That means a reference point in the past has been established in the text, either explicitly or implicitly. The reference point is probably the recent decision to attribute the sculptures to Michelangelo. So not 'the last 100 years up to now", but "the last 100 years up to that decision".

I see. Thanks for the reply.

For at least a century

Top answer

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

Related Questions