Reply
Sun 14 Feb, 2010 05:56 am
I don't understand very well about "is anything to go by".
Context:
First off, the pandemic isn't over. While cases in western Europe and North America have tailed off, the virus is still spreading in eastern Europe, Africa and Asia. Meanwhile, Europe and North America could see cases rise again, if the flu pandemic of 1957-8 is anything to go by.
This is a stock phrase in English. It means "represents a good example," or "is a good basis upon which to judge." So:
Meanwhile, Europe and North America could see cases rise again, if the flu pandemic of 1957-8 is a good example.
Or:
Meanwhile, Europe and North America could see cases rise again, if the flu pandemic of 1957-8 is a good basis upon which to judge.
You're welcome, Oristar. If your improvement over the years i've known you is anything to go by, you're getting quite fluent in English.
Stumble It!
Tweet This
Bookmark on Delicious
Share on Facebook
Share on MySpace