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1. What do these " if only" phrases mean? ; a) They clashed early and often, and Bruce thought about firing her on many occasions, but she was royal, punctual, and willing to work for the low wages .... with time they staked out their own duties and turfs and Wanda held on to her job, if only by a thread. b)The morning was overcast but the stifling heat had broken, if only for a day or two.
2. What does this "Go" mean? ; a) " Go, Nelson" Bruce said. " Come on, Bruce," Noelle scolded. " It's okay," Dane said." We were very fond of each other. And I feel responsible for his death. If he hadn't met me he would still be alive." b) Bruce ended the call and stared at the phone. If not for his lates wedding vows, he would really like to see Dane again. Go, Nelson. ( All articles came from a novel titled : 'Camino Winds' by John Grisham.
Top answer
1) These "if only" phrases emphasise the small amount, or small margin, by which the preceding statement is true. 2) More prior context is needed to understand whether Nelson is being told to leave, or whether this is an expression of approval/encouragement towards Nelson, perhaps meant sarcastically. I found some fuller context for the first instance, and it seems that the latter meaning is intended, I think sarcastically.
- 1) These "if only" phrases emphasise the small amount, or small margin, by which the preceding statement is true.
- 2) More prior context is needed to understand whether Nelson is being told to leave, or whether this is an expression of approval/encouragement towards Nelson, perhaps meant sarcastically.
- I found some fuller context for the first instance, and it seems that the latter meaning is intended, I think sarcastically.
- I cannot access sufficient context for the second example, but it may be the same.
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1) These "if only" phrases emphasise the small amount, or small margin, by which the preceding statement is true.
2) More prior context is needed to understand whether Nelson is being told to leave, or whether this is an expression of approval/encouragement towards Nelson, perhaps meant sarcastically. I found some fuller context for the first instance, and it seems that the latter meanin
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