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Vahabbayani Posted 14 years ago
Grammar

if

Would anyone explain the grammatical point regarding if in this sentence. What does it mean anyway?

Certain of Saussure's own expressions, which are correct, if debatable, open a crack in which error can take root.
  

Top answer

Hi, This use of 'if' implies the speaker has some reservations about what has just been said. eg His qualifications are impressive, if genuine. eg His theories are interesting, if debatable.

  • Hi, This use of 'if' implies the speaker has some reservations about what has just been said.
  • eg His qualifications are impressive, if genuine.
  • eg His theories are interesting, if debatable.
  • In your example, the phrase seems odd because, if something is correct, how can it be debatable?
  • Clive
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1 Answers
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Hi,

This use of 'if' implies the speaker has some reservations about what has just been said.
eg His qualifications are impressive, if genuine.
eg His theories are interesting, if debatable.


In your example, the phrase seems odd bec

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