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Use of "X can be Y only if Z are"

English Language & Usage Asked by tobyink on May 16, 2021

Example:

Your conclusion can be withdrawn only if your prior papers are.

Is repeating the verb at the end required? Like:

Your conclusion can be withdrawn only if your prior papers are withdrawn.

One suggestion would be to replace "are" with "can", but this seems to change the meaning:

Your conclusion can be withdrawn only if your prior papers can.

One Answer

The repetition of “withdrawn” is not required in a more or less casual context.

But: ”Your prior papers may be published in the Annals. Your conclusion can be withdrawn only if your prior papers are.” Now it’s confusing — if they “are” what? Published? Withdrawn? You have to state which one it is.

To be clear and precise when every word counts, it is best to remove any doubts by repeating “withdrawn”.

Correct answer by user416741 on May 16, 2021

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