Persian

Question

Hello every bodyI have a question about this sentence:If we had been able to speak Persian... can only be used to describe a situation that occurred at some time in the past that had consequences in the past, even if it resulted in further consequences that extend into the present.I know the meaning of this sentence but I want to know the meaning of the "even if" clause in this sentence. Is that If clause a true condition or untrue condition? What is it mean?

Mister Micawber · Accepted Answer

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AnonymousI know the meaning of this sentence

But I don't think it is quite accurate.

AnonymousIf we had been able to speak Persian... can only be used to describe a situation that occurred at some time in the past

Yes, that's right.

Anonymousthat had consequences in the past,

I don't think that is necessary (though it is likely). For example:

If I had been born smart, I would be rich today.

Anonymous but I want to know the meaning of the "even if" clause in this sentence.

even if

1 Despite the possibility that; no matter whether: always try everything even if it turns out to be a dud

1.1 Despite the fact that: he is a great president, even if he has many enemies.

AnonymousIs that If clause a true condition or untrue condition?

It is a possible condition.

Anonymous · Answer

Could you please describe this even if clause more? This even if clause is different from others

Mister Micawber · Answer

AnonymousCould you please describe this even if clause more?

What do you not understand?

AnonymousThis even if clause is different from others

Which others? In what way? Please post an example.

AlpheccaStars · Answer

AnonymousThis even if clause is different from others

I'm not sure what others you mean. Here are some examples:

Present / future:
Even if the pig sprouted wings, he still couldn't fly. He's too heavy.
Even if Alicia were ugly and fat, George would (still) love her. She is gentle and kind to everyone.

Past:
Even if they had been reinforced with concrete and steel, the buildings would have collapsed in the earthquake followed by the tsunami. No building could have withstood this force of nature.

Blue Jay · Answer

Here's the source of the original sentence:

Perhaps someone else can explain it better for the OP than I did

Blue Jay · Answer

And here is another discussion of the "We might get better directions" question:

Persian

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