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Anonymous Posted 17 years ago
Grammar
What's the meaning of "can but do something."
Jane Austen wrote: "If I can but see one of my daughters happily settled at Netherfield, and all the others equally well married, I shall have nothing to wish for." in Pride and Prejudice.
I am confused the use of "can but do" here. What is the exact use of "but" in this sentence? Does it mean that "If I can just/at least see one of my daughters ..."?
Thank you all.
Kenny
I am confused the use of "can but do" here. What is the exact use of "but" in this sentence? Does it mean that "If I can just/at least see one of my daughters ..."?
Thank you all.
Kenny
Top answer
Napoleon and Marie Antoinette, to name but two who had stayed in the great state rooms. Respectfully, Gleb Chebrikoff
- Napoleon and Marie Antoinette, to name but two who had stayed in the great state rooms.
- Respectfully, Gleb Chebrikoff
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1 Answers
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Dear friend,
but is sometimes used to mean 'only', and this usage is considered formal, eg
...Napoleon and Marie Antoinette, to name but two who had stayed in the great state rooms.
Respectfully, Gleb Chebrikoff
but is sometimes used to mean 'only', and this usage is considered formal, eg
...Napoleon and Marie Antoinette, to name but two who had stayed in the great state rooms.
Respectfully, Gleb Chebrikoff
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