اقدم لحضراتكم اسئلة هامة لك معلم تم مناقشتها على موقع Longman
ما صيغة النفى من had better -would rather ?
The negatives are made with not at the end: had better not, would rather not.

Why do we say:“Are you any good at painting”? (Sec 1 WB, page 9, Ex. 3)
Here, any is an adverb that means “to any extent, in any degree, at all”. When we ask if someone is any good, we are asking if they are even a little bit good. If we want to know if someone really is good, we ask simply “Are you good at ...?”

.....
Sec 3, Unit 13, SB page 82. “These days women have as good an education as men.” Why does the indefinite article “an” come after the adjective here? ”?



. This is a very common structure in English: as (adjective) a/an (noun) as. Here it means that women have an education that is as good as men’s education.
Jane wore as beautiful a dress as any I’ve ever seen.
Henry made as delicious a pie as Sue did.

Sec 2, Unit 6. how to make the comparative and superlative form of the adjectives which end with "ly" like friendly, silly, lovely, kindly, motherly,etc.



For many two-syllable adjectives, both the -er/-est form and the more/most form are possible. For some two-syllable adjectives, only the more/most form is possible. Check a good dictionary to be sure.
For two-syllable adjectives that end in y preceded by a consonant, to make the -er/-est form we change the y to i and add the -er or -est ending. For example, tidy - tidier - tidiest. This rule works for the followng adjectives, and perhaps others. Check a dictionary:

tidy, busy, dirty, dry, early, easy, empty, funny, pretty, happy, heavy, ready, sleepy, ugly (also more/most ugly); also for opposites beginning with un- : untidy, unhappy, uneasy

However, the comparative/superlative of shy is shyer - shyest.

LDOCE does not give a comparative form of motherly, and I think it would be unusual to compare this adjective. I would use more motherly.

Kindly is old-fashioned. I would use kind - kinder - kindest. LDOCE does not give comparative/superlative forms, but Merriam-Webster Third New International Unabridged gives the comparative/superlative as -er/-est. (The y should change to i).

Nothing is more ugly than a street without trees. Is it grammatically correct to say "more ugly"?
.................................................. .................................................. .............
Yes, this is grammatical. Many two-syllable adjectives can form the comparative and superlative with either -er, -est or with more, most. In fact, the comparative/superlative with more, most is becoming more common.
See Comparatives and superlatives in the Archives (http://www.longmansec.com.eg/QACat.aspx) for more.

On a plane, was written : “Fasten your seat belt while seated.” What is the grammatical rule of “while seated”?



I don’t fully understand what you mean by a grammatical rule. This sentence is short for Fasten your seat belt while you are seated. Signs and headlines often use a style, called block language, that excludes pronouns, the verb be, articles, etc. You can read about block language and about abbreviated sentences in instructional writing in Quirk et al, A Comprehensive Grammar of the English Language, pp 845-848.

Do we say "many" or "much" foods?



Food, like many other words, has both countable and uncountable uses.
When you have the plural foods, you use the determiner many. The plural foods means different things to eat, different kinds of foods.

Many processed foods have too much salt in them.
Some traditional Egyptian foods are fava beans (ful), falafel, and molokhia.

When you have the singular food, you use the determiner much. This means that you have a large quantity of food, whether one type or more than one type.

There was a lot of food served at the wedding.
I like to eat Japanese food.
We have to go shopping. There's not much food in the house.

How can I make comparisons with these adjectives: "right", "dead", "wrong" and so on?



In short, you can't. These are non-gradable or non-comparable adjectives. In most usages, you either are or are not right, dead, or wrong. Other such adjectives are alive, pregnant, daily, medical, perfect, extinct.
Most non-gradable adjectives can sometimes be compared. Dead is sometimes used as a comparative in the idiomatic phrase deader than a doornail (or dead as a doornail). In a complex moral or ethics issue that has no clear-cut answer, one might say that one position is more right or more wrong than another, without saying that one position is (absolutely) right or wrong. Informally, we can say that a woman who is 8 months pregnant is more pregnant than one who is 3 weeks pregnant, but in more formal usuage pregnant is a non-gradable adjective.

"It's hot in here." Why don't we say "It's hot here"? Is there a difference?


(1) It's hot in here.
(2) It's hot here.
In sentence (1), here is a noun (meaning "the present pla

ce or juncture"). You would say It's hot in here if you're talking about an enclosed place such as a room, tent, or building. In sentence (2), here is an adverb. You would say It's hot here if you're talking about an open place such as a garden, city, or country.

When do we use a comma before "but"? Is it optional or obligatory to use it before "but"?



This question is too general because but has different functions. It is usually a conjunction but it can also be a preposition, as in this sentence:
I saw everyone but John at the party.

And as a conjunction, but can join words, phrases, or clauses.

I like apples but not bananas.
Jack washed the dishes but left them for Jill to dry.

When but is used to join independent clauses (sentences), we usually use a comma at the end of the first clause. However, if the two clauses are short and closely related, the comma is optional. In modern usage, it is preferred to omit the comma in this case.

Hilary grabbed her books and rushed to the door, but she caught her foot on the carpet and tripped. (long clauses; comma is needed)
Our team is strong but theirs is weak. (short, closely related clauses; comma optional but preferred omitted)

Is the word “goods” countable or uncountable? Do I say “how many goods” or “how much goods”? The same question with the word “clothes”.



Both of these words are a bit unusual. They are plural in form and take plural verbs, we say “how many goods” or “how many clothes”, but they are considered uncountable. We answer in the form of items or quantities. We don’t say “I have three clothes” or “the factory produces 4,000 goods.” We give a number with a name of the goods or we give a quantity in weight, cartons, or another measure.
How many goods does this factory produce?
It produces 500 kilos of nails each day.
It produces 200 pairs of jeans a day.

How many clothes are you taking on your trip?
Just one suit and two shirts.
Three suitcases full. Do you think that’s too many?

What is the difference between “die of” and “die from”?



In current usage, these two are used interchangeably. There is no difference. See LDOCE (http://www.ldoceonline.com/dictionary/die_1).

In the Prep 3 novel "Journey to the Centre of the Earth," why is the title of the novel "Journey..." and not "A Journey..."?



In titles of books we often use a special type of language called block language. We also use block language in other discourse functions such as labels, titles, newspaper headlines, headings, notices, and advertisements. These messages are usually not sentences but consist of a noun, noun phrase, or nominal clause. We rarely need verbs and words that have low-information value, such as the articles, so these are often omitted. Not all book titles omit the article, but it is commonly done.
You can read more about block language in A Comprehensive Grammar of the English Language (Quirk et al.) pages 845ff and about the language of headlines in Practical English Usage (Michael Swan) pages 211ff.

Prep 3. I noticed some differences between the following sentences concerning the position of "neither … nor". Please clarify these points. Prep 3. SB Unit 17 page 42, Ex. 7: (a) Pam saw neither people nor cars. Practice test 1, Q6: (4) I saw neither Ali nor his brother. / I neither saw Ali nor his brother. WB Unit 17, page 27, Ex. 5: (b) Ahmad has visited neither India nor China.



The answer for the practice test item should be revised. Neither and nor should go before the elements they are modifying.
I didn't see Ali and and didn't see his brother.
I saw neither Ali nor his brother.

Ali didn't write and he didn't phone.
Ali neither wrote nor phoned.

Bach wasn't French and Beethoven wasn't French.
Neither Bach nor Beethoven was French.


Prep 3. I noticed some differences between the following sentences concerning the position of "not only ... but also" Could you please clarify these points? Unit 16, WB page 23, Ex 2: (b) Carl Kunth didn't only study animals, but he also studied plants. (c) Paul Von Wurttemburg didn't go only to Sudan, but he also went to Egypt. (d) The English travellers weren't only crossing deserts, but they were also crossing jungles. But in Practice Test 2, Q6: (1) The English travellers were crossing not only deserts, but also jungles.



The answer in the TG should be revised. As it was taught in the book, an acceptable answer is The English travellers were not only crossing deserts, but they were also crossing jungles.
However, it actually is more common to make the answer as in the TG: The English travellers were crossing not only deserts, but also jungles.

In this case, not only and but also can go immediately before the words they modify. They can also go in mid-position with the verb (generally without do) if the verb is the word to be modified.

The English travellers ate ***hri. The Italian travellers ate ***hri too.
Not only the English travellers but also the Italian travellers ate ***hri.
Not only the English travellers but also the Italian ones ate ***hri.
Not only the English travellers ate ***hri but also the Italian travellers.
Not only the English travellers ate ***hri but also the Italian ones.

The Russian travellers ate ***hri. They also ate kufta.
The Russian travellers ate not only ***hri but also kufta.

The Swedish travellers ate ***hri. They also took it home.
The Swedish travellers not only ate ***hri but also took it home.

nei‧ther1 W3http://www.thanwya.com/imgs/_20__22na_FB_F0_EB_20_24_A0_22ni__F0_EBr_.gif

not one or the other of two people or things [↪ either]: http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gif'Would you like tea or coffee?' 'Neither, thanks.'
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifIt was a game in which neither team deserved to win.
neither ofhttp://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifNeither of them can cook.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifThompson had two strategies, neither of which seems to have worked very well.

http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifWe asked both John and Jerry, but neither one could offer a satisfactory explanation.
➔ see usage note none1 (http://www.thanwya.com/dictionary/none_1#p008-000231151)
WORD CHOICE: http://www.thanwya.com/images/entry/openbox.gifWORD CHOICE: http://www.thanwya.com/images/entry/closebox.gif

none, neitherUse none to talk about a group of three or more things or people • None of my friends came.To talk about two things or people, use neither • Neither of my parents wanted me to marry him.GRAMMARnone of can be followed by a plural noun or an uncountable noun • None of these diets worked. • None of the money was missing.neither of is followed by a plural noun • Neither of the rooms was free.After the plural noun, you can use a plural or singular verb. You should use a singular verb in formal writing • None of us care OR cares what happens to him. • None of us is able to escape the consequences of our actions.!! Do not use another negative word (eg 'not') with none • We got 3 points and they got none (NOT they didn't get none). • I didn't want any of them (NOT I didn't want none of them). ➔ See also none (http://www.thanwya.com/dictionary/none_1#p008-000231151)
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/sharethisentry/widgets_share_the_ldoce.png (http://www.thanwya.com/widgets.html)


neither

3 conjunction


neither3


1 neither ... nor ...

used when mentioning two things that are not true or possible: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifNeither Oleg's mother nor his father spoke English.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifThe equipment is neither accurate nor safe.
! Do not say 'neither ...or ...'. Say not ...or ... or neither ...nor ...: We don't know or care where he is. | Neither he nor his wife eats meat.

2 be neither here nor there

spoken used to say that something is not important because it does not affect a fact or situation [= irrelevant]: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifThe fact that she needed the money for her children is neither here nor there - it's still stealing.


3 be neither one thing nor the other

spoken used to say that something or someone cannot be described as either one of two types of thing or person, but is somewhere in the middle of the two: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifThe New York Times is neither one thing nor the other. It's not really a city newspaper and it's not really a national newspaper either.


4 formal used to add another negative statement about someone or something [= nor]: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifThe authorities were not sympathetic to the students' demands, neither would they tolerate any disruption.

as1 S1 W1http://www.thanwya.com/imgs/_20__EBz_3B_20strong_09_09_09_09_09_09_09_E6z_.gif

1 used when you are comparing two people, things, situations etc as ... as http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifTom's not as old as you, is he?
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifan old woman with hair as white as snow
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifSome of the doctors are paid almost twice as much as the nurses.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifWe work as hard as any other team in England.

http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifPlease let me know your decision as soon as possible (=as soon as you can).
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifHis last album sold half a million copies and we hope this one will be just as (=equally) popular.


2 used to say what job, duty, use, or appearance someone or something has: http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifAs a parent, I feel that more should be done to protect our children.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifA flat stone was used as a table.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifDad dressed up as Santa Claus.


3 used to say what someone thinks or says a person or thing is: http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifThe problem is regarded as serious.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifThe result of last week's election will be seen as a victory for the right-wing government.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifHe's described as being in his late teens, tall, and of slim build.


4 when someone was in a particular age group: http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifAs a young man, Eliot had studied art in Paris.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifI'll take you to all the places I loved as a girl.

➔ such as

at such (2) (http://www.thanwya.com/dictionary/such#p008-000627808) ➔ as one

at one2 (16) (http://www.thanwya.com/dictionary/one_2#p008-001558089)WORD CHOICE: http://www.thanwya.com/images/entry/openbox.gifWORD CHOICE: http://www.thanwya.com/images/entry/closebox.gif

as, like, as if Use as in comparisons in the expression as ... as, with an adjective or adverb in between • Basketball is as popular as football here. • He can't read as well as his classmates.as is also used in the expressions not so .... as and the same (...) as • I wouldn't go so far as that. • He is the same age as me. Use like in comparisons followed by a noun • A movie is not like a book (NOT not as a book). • Like other people (NOT as other people), he values his privacy. Use as if followed by a clause to compare a real situation with an imaginary situation • He talked to them as if they were children.!! Some people use like in this sort of comparison • They act like they own the place. It is better not to do this as many people think it is incorrect.!!as if cannot be followed directly by a noun • You treat them as if they were your parents (NOT as if your parents).

as2 S1 W1

1 used in comparisons as ... as http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifThey want peace as much as we do.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifHelen comes to visit me as often as she can.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifI can't run as fast as I used to.



2XX in the way that someone says or that something happens, or in the condition something is in: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifDo as I say!
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifWe'd better leave things as they are until the police arrive.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifThe money was repaid, as promised.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifHe did not need to keep moving house, as his father had.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifRoberta was late as usual (=in the way that she usually was).


3 used to say that what you are saying is already known or has been stated before: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifDavid, as you know, has not been well lately.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifAs I explained on the phone, your request will be considered at the next meeting.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifAs Napoleon once said, attack is the best method of defence.


4 while or when: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifI saw Peter as I was getting off the bus.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifAs time passed, things seemed to get worse.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifJust as the two men were leaving, a message arrived.


5 used to state why a particular situation exists or why someone does something: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifAs it was getting late, I turned around to start for home.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifWe asked Philip to come with us, as he knew the road.


6 though: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifUnlikely as it might seem, I'm tired too.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifTry as she might, Sue couldn't get the door open.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifAs popular as he is, the President hasn't always managed to have his own way.


7 as for somebody/something

used when you are starting to talk about someone or something new that is connected with what you were talking about before: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifKitty's got so thin. And as for Carl, he always seems to be ill.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifYou can ask the others, but as for myself, I'll be busy in the office.


8 as yet

[used in negatives] until and including the present time - used to say that something has not happened although it may happen in the future: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifWe've had no word from Colin as yet.


9 as if.../as though...

a) in a way that makes it seem that something is true or that something is happening: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifIt sounds as though she's been really ill.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifGary was behaving as though nothing had happened.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifMrs Crump looked as if she was going to explode.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifBeckworth shook his head as if to say 'Don't trust her'.

b) used to emphasize that something is not true or will not happen: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifShe said she'd never speak to me again. As if I cared (=I do not care at all).
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gif'Don't try any funny business, now.' 'As if I would.'
As if! spoken informal: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifHe asked if I'd go out with him. As if! (=it is extremely unlikely that I would go out with him)

➔ see usage note as1 (http://www.thanwya.com/dictionary/as_1#p008-000785972)


10 it's not as if

used to say that something cannot be the explanation for a situation or someone's behaviour because it is not true: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifWhy do they never go on holiday? I mean it's not as if they're poor is it?
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifI don't know why you're so frightened of her, it's not as if she's got any power over you.


11 as it is

a) because of the situation that actually exists - used when that situation is different from what you expected or need: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifThey hoped to finish the kitchen by Friday, but as it is they'll probably have to come back next week.

b) already: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifJust keep quiet - you're in enough trouble as it is.



12 as from/of something

starting from a particular time or date and continuing: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifAs from today, you are in charge of the office.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifAs of now, there will be no more paid overtime.


13 as against something

in comparison with something: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifProfits this year are $2.5 million as against $4 million last year.


14 as to something

a) concerning: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifFrank was very uncertain as to whether it was the right job for him.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifadvice as to which suppliers to approach
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifHe kept his rivals guessing as to his real intentions.

b) formal used when you are starting to talk about something new that is connected with what you were talking about before: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifAs to our future plans, I think I need only say that the company intends to expand at a steady rate.



15 as it were

used when describing someone or something in a way that is not quite exact: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifJim Radcliffe became our idol, as it were, the man we all wanted to be.


16 as is/was/does etc

formal used to add that what you have said is also true of someone or something else: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifEve's very tall, as was her mother.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifI voted Labour, as did my wife.


17 as you do

British English spoken in the way that people usually do something or how they normally behave; often used humorously by people after they have mentioned doing something strange or unusual: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifWe talked, exchanged email addresses and phone numbers, as you do on planes.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifI was driving a Ferrari through town yesterday - as you do - when I saw an old schoolfriend outside the cinema.

either ... or

a) used to begin a list of two or more possibilities:
You add either one or two cloves of garlic.
She's the kind of person you either love or hate.
➔ see usage note also (http://www.ldoceonline.com/dictionary/also#p008-000785413)
b) used to say that if one thing does not happen then something else will have to:
It's your choice! Either she leaves or I will!
£75 seems a lot to pay for a starter motor, but it's either that or a new car!
c)
an either-or situation

a situation in which you cannot avoid having to make a decision or choice

by
who/what does something

used especially with a passive verb to say who or what does something or makes something happen:
I was attacked by a dog.
a church designed by the famous architect, Sir Christopher Wren
We are all alarmed by the rise in violent crime.
interference by the state in the affairs of the Church
his appointment by the BBC as a producer
2
means/method

used to say what means or method someone uses to do something:
You can reserve the tickets by phone.
Send it by airmail.
Some customers prefer to pay by cheque.
by car/train/bus/taxi etc
They travelled to Chicago by train.
by air/sea/land/road/rail etc
All supplies are transported by air.
by doing something
She earns her living by selling insurance.
He was taken from his home by force.
3XX
road/door

used to say which road, entrance, door etc someone uses to get to a place:
They came in by the back door.
It's quicker to go by the country route.
4XX
taking hold

used to say which part of an object or of a person's body someone takes hold of:
He took Elaine by the arm and led her across the road.
She grabbed the hammer by the handle.
5
writer/composer etc

used to give the name of someone who wrote a book, produced a film, wrote a piece of music etc:
the 'New World Symphony' by Dvorak
a short story by Charles Dickens
Who's it by?
6
beside

beside or near something:
She stood by the window.
Jane went and sat by Patrick.
7
past

past someone or something without stopping:
He walked right by me without even saying hello.
I pass by the farm every day on my way to work.
8
before

before or not later than a particular time:
The documents need to be ready by next Friday.
I reckon the film should be over by 9.30.
By the end of the day we had sold over 2000 tickets.
By the time we got home we were tired and hungry.
9
according to

according to a particular rule, method, or way of doing things:
You've got to play by the rules.
Profits were £6 million, but by our standards this is low.
10XX
change/difference

used to say how great a change or difference is:
The price of oil fell by a further $2 a barrel.
I was overcharged by £3.
Godard's first film was better by far (=by a large amount or degree).
11
measurements

used to give the measurements of a room, container etc:
a room 15 metres by 23 metres
12XX
quantity

used to show what unit of measurement or quantity is involved in selling, paying for, producing etc something:
Eggs are sold by the dozen.
We're paid by the hour.
She wanted to tear his hair out by the handful.
13XX
gradual change

used to say that something happens gradually:
Day by day he grew weaker.
Little by little I was beginning to discover the truth about Garfield.
One by one, the men stepped forward.
14XX
quick change

used to say that something or someone is quickly becoming worse, better etc:
The financial crisis was growing more serious by the hour.
15
light

used to say that something happens in a particular kind of light:
We walked through the palace gardens by moonlight.
16
by day/night

during the day or the night:
a tour of Paris by night
17XX
job/nature etc

used when you are giving information about someone's character, job, origin etc:
George I and George II were Germans by birth.
Cautious by nature, Simpkin was reluctant to interfere.
Robert Key was a teacher by profession.
18
visiting

in order to visit a person or place for a short time:
On the way, I stopped by the post office.
19
(all) by yourself

a) completely alone:
Dave spent Christmas all by himself.
b) without help from anyone:
You can't move the furniture all by yourself.
20
multiplying/dividing

used between two numbers when talking about multiplying or dividing:
What's 48 divided by 4?
21XX
emphasis

used when expressing strong feelings or making serious promises:
By God, I'll kill that boy when I see him!
22
father

if a woman has children by a particular man, that man is the children's father:
She's got two children by her previous husband.
23
by the by

spoken used when mentioning something that may be interesting but is not particularly important:
By the by, Ian said he might call round tonight.
➔ by the way

at way (http://www.ldoceonline.com/dictionary/way_1#p008-000453944)
WORD CHOICE: WORD CHOICE:

by, with, inby is used especially in passives, to say who or what does or causes something • She was hit by a truck. • a book written by Peter Carey Use with or in after verbs which describe a state rather than an action • The room was lit with candles. • Her house is always filled with music. • The books were covered in dust. Use with to say what tool you use to do something • I got the stain out with this brush (NOT by this brush).

if

1 used when talking about something that might happen or be true, or might have happened: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifWe'll stay at home if it rains.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifIf you need money, I can lend you some.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifIf I didn't apologize I'd feel guilty.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifIf you had worked harder, you would have passed your exams.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifWhat would happen to your family if you were to die in an accident?
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifIf Dad were here, he would know what to do.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifTaste the soup and add salt and pepper if necessary.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifI want to get back by five o'clock if possible.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifI think I can fix it tomorrow. If not, you'll have to wait till Friday.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifIs the book available, and if so where?
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifThe missiles can be fired only if the operator types in a six-digit code.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifWe'll face that problem if and when it comes along (=if it happens or when it happens).
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gif If by any chance you can't manage dinner tonight, perhaps we can at least have a drink together.
➔ see usage note unless (http://www.thanwya.com/dictionary/unless#p008-000454472)

2 used to mention a fact, situation, or event that someone asks about, or is not certain about: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifHe stopped to ask me if I was all right.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifI don't know if what I am saying makes any sense.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifI doubt if anyone will remember me.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifI'm not sure if this is the right road or not.


3 used to mention a type of event or situation when talking about what happens on occasions of that type: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifIf I go to bed late I feel dreadful in the morning.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifPlastic will melt if it gets too hot.


4 used when saying what someone's feelings are about a possible situation: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifYou don't seem to care if I'm tired.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifI'm sorry if I upset you.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifIt would be nice if we could spend more time together.


5 spoken used when making a polite request: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifI wonder if you could help me.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifI'd be grateful if you would send me further details.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifWould you mind if I open a window?
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifIf you would just wait for a moment, I'll try to find your papers.


6 used when you are adding that something may be even more, less, better, worse etc than you have just said: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifBrian rarely, if ever, goes to bed before 3 am.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifTheir policies have changed little, if at all, since the last election.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifHer needs are just as important as yours, if not more so.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifThe snow was now two feet deep, making it difficult, if not impossible, to get the car out.


7 even if

used to emphasize that, although something may happen or may be true, it will not change a situation: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifI wouldn't tell you even if I knew.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifEven if she survives, she'll never fully recover.


8 if anything

used when adding a remark that changes what you have just said or makes it stronger: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifIt's warm enough here in London. A little too warm, if anything.


9 spoken used during a conversation when you are trying to make a suggestion, change the subject, or interrupt someone else: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifIf I might just make a suggestion, I think that the matter could be easily settled with a little practical demonstration.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifIf I could just take one example to illustrate this.


10 if I were you

spoken used when giving advice and telling someone what you think they should do: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifI wouldn't worry about it if I were you.


11 if only

a) used to express a strong wish, especially when you know that what you want cannot happen: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifIf only he had talked to her sooner!
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifIf only I weren't so tired!

b) used to give a reason for something, although you think it is not a good one: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifMedia studies is regarded as a more exciting subject, if only because it's new.



12 used to say that although something may be true, it is not important: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifIf he has a fault at all, it is that he is too generous.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifHer only problem, if you can call it a problem, is that she expects to be successful all the time.


13 used when adding one criticism of a person or thing that you generally like: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifThe eldest son was highly intelligent, if somewhat lazy.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifLunch was a grand if rather noisy affair.

➔ as if

at as2 (9) (http://www.thanwya.com/dictionary/as_2#p008-000991313) ➔ if ever there was one

at ever (15) (http://www.thanwya.com/dictionary/ever#p008-001643132) ➔ what if...?

at what1 (18) (http://www.thanwya.com/dictionary/what#p008-000454196)GRAMMAR http://www.thanwya.com/images/entry/openbox.gifGRAMMAR http://www.thanwya.com/images/entry/closebox.gif

When you are using if to talk about something that might happen in the future, use the present simple tense, not will or shall • if I fail the test (NOT if I will fail the test). To refer to the present or the future after if when you are talking about something unlikely or untrue, use the past tense, not 'would' or 'should' • If someone gave me the money, I'd buy a car tomorrow (NOT If someone would give me the money...)!! In formal English or in writing, use were not was when the subject of the clause is I, he, she, it, there or a singular noun • If I were in that position, I'd get legal advice. • Imagine how you would feel if your child were killed. In normal conversation, you can also use was • If I was ten years younger, I'd go out with him.!! The expression if I were you is fixed. Do not say 'if I was you', even in normal conversation • If I were you, I'd have a talk with your parents. To refer to the past when you are talking about something that did not happen, use the past perfect tense • If he had married Laura, he would have been unhappy (NOT If he would have married Laura...).

al‧though 1

1 used to introduce a statement that makes your main statement seem surprising or unlikely [= though]: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifAlthough she was in poor health, she continued to carry out her duties.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifWe decided to take rooms in Longwood House, although we knew we could not really afford the rent.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifAlthough I can't help admiring the man's courage, I do not approve of his methods.


2 used to add a statement that balances or reduces the effect of what you have just said [= but]: http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifYou can copy down my answers, although I'm not sure they're right.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/678/entry/pronsentencea.gifNo, this is my responsibility, although I appreciate your offer.

de‧spite

1 used to say that something happens or is true even though something else might have prevented it [= in spite of]: http://www.thanwya.com/images/entry/pronsentence.gifDespite all our efforts to save the school, the authorities decided to close it.
despite the fact (that) http://www.thanwya.com/images/entry/pronsentence.gifShe went to Spain despite the fact that her doctor had told her to rest.



2 despite yourself

if you do something despite yourself, you do it although you did not intend to: http://www.thanwya.com/images/entry/pronsentence.gifLiz realized that, despite herself, she cared about Edward.

but1

1 used to connect two statements or phrases when the second one adds something different or seems surprising after the first one: http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifIt's an old car, but it's very reliable.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifThey rushed to the hospital, but they were too late.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifWe've invited the boss, but she may decide not to come.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifan expensive but extremely useful book
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gif'Has he got any experience?' 'No, but he's keen to learn.'


2 used to introduce a statement that explains why the thing you have mentioned did not happen or is not possible: http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifI'd like to go but I'm too busy.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifThey would have married sooner, but they had to wait for her divorce.


3 used after a negative to emphasize that it is the second part of the sentence that is true: http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifHe lied to the court not just once, but on several occasions.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifThe purpose of the scheme is not to help the employers but to provide work for young people.


4 except: http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifWhat can we do but sit and wait?
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifI had no choice but to accept the challenge.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifNot a day goes by but I think of dear old Larry (=I think of him every day).


5 but for

a) used when you are saying that something would have happened if something or someone else had not prevented it: http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifBut for these interruptions, the meeting would have finished earlier.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifThe score could have been higher but for some excellent goalkeeping by Simon.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifI might never have got to university but for you.

b) except for something or someone: http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifAll was silent but for the sound of the wind in the trees.



6 but then (again)

spoken a) used when you are adding a statement that says almost the opposite of what you have just said: http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifJohn might be ready to help us, but then again, he might not.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifYou feel really sorry for him. But then again, it's hard to like him.

b) used when you are adding a statement that makes what you have just said seem less surprising: http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifDinah missed the last rehearsal, but then she always was unreliable, wasn't she?



7XX spoken used when you are replying to someone and expressing strong feelings such as anger, surprise etc: http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifBut that's marvellous news!
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gif'They won't even discuss the problem.' 'But how stupid!'


8 somebody cannot but do something

formal used to say that someone has to do something or cannot stop themselves from doing it: http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifI could not but admire her.


9 spoken used when disagreeing with someone: http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gif'It was a good idea.' 'But it didn't work.'


10 spoken used to emphasize a word or statement: http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifIt'll be a great party - everyone, but everyone, is coming.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifThey're rich, but I mean rich.


11 spoken used to change the subject of a conversation: http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifBut now to the main question.
http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifBut tell me, are you really planning to retire?


12 spoken used after expressions such as 'excuse me' and 'I'm sorry': http://www.thanwya.com/images/692/entry/pronsentencea.gifExcuse me, but I'm afraid this is a no-smoking area.

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