Quote:
Originally Posted by vivaldirules
Another common word usage I dislike is "A, if not B". For example, what does it mean when someone says "The attorney's behaviour in the hearing was questionable, if not criminal"? Is the speaker trying to suggest that the behaviour fell short of being criminal? Or is he trying to insinuate that it might be criminal without actually having to say so? Or is he confused with this word usage and he's really trying to say that it was criminal? I can never tell and, if I care, I have to question the speaker for his intent. I am finding no single intended meaning to be dominant for this construction.
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At least this one's still a valid structure. I'd say the speaker's trying to insinuate that it might be criminal. Keyword being might. He's not actually sure if it's criminal or not so he's trying to cover his behind by not saying it outright.
