For the average speaker/writer, they are essentially the same and can be used in either positive or negative contexts. What irks me is when someone uses "thanks to" in a negative context. Even though I recognize that sometimes the

3. for 7. older person 10. instinct 12/ against 13. below 14. ??? 15. lower, reduce, de base....ok

1. except for 2. sound 6. are waiting 7. worst 9. 'left' is ok if it has been going on for a while; if it's just beginning, no 'left' 10. I think that 'eating' belongs in there before 'the meat'

Is the word argue used in infinitive form ? These patterns are called, if you want a name for them, pseudo-clefts with do . CJ Another great term I've learned from you, CJ!

I only sent her three letters. Which does only modify, sent or three letters ? Thanks One of my special points. "only" modifies "three", so it clearly should be I sent her only three letters. "I sent

Hi, More natural are - I want to change the pin number on my ATM card. I want to change my ATM pin number. Clive Natural, yes, but redundant, because the n in pin stands for number. I'm also always amused by

There's another expression with the same word. Knock their socks off = do so well that you really surprise everyone

I've never come across it.

"All you ever do is argue." Is the word argue used in infinitive form ? Yes. Why don't we use the gerund form ? I wouldn't say 'All you ever do is arguing' is wrong, but it doesn't sound good to me. Best

Hi Dipsik Either one is OK. If you place "only" directly in front of "an infinitesimal chance", then you would be focusing the idea of "only" directly on "an infinitesimal chance". And