CIA to examine raw Iraq data
Probe into intelligence quality expanded
Obviously, the format of such a title is commonly used by writers. But what exactly does the "to" mean? That is, what exact definition does it have in this case? To my knowledge for now, the title means "CIA is examining raw Iraq data". Am I on the right track?
In this case I'd say To = will, is going to
The CIA will examine... in the future.
0 Replies
oristarA
1
Reply
Thu 20 Nov, 2003 01:26 am
Ceili wrote:
In this case I'd say To = will, is going to
The CIA will examine... in the future.
What I said "CIA is examining..." meant future tense, cos I thought it is like "is going"... Now it seems not worked.
In addition, I thought "to examine" in this case meant "is to examine", right?
Anyways, your explanation is very clear, Ceili.
0 Replies
Wy
1
Reply
Thu 20 Nov, 2003 07:46 pm
"CIA is examining" will always be present tense. In order for it to be future tense, you must say, "CIA is going to examine". You need the whole phrase "going to" in order for it to be future tense. So yes, "CIA to examine" and "CIA is going to examine" mean the same thing... but headline writers cut out as many words as they can, as you are learning!
p.s. keep asking such good questions! You make us native English speakers think!
0 Replies
oristarA
1
Reply
Thu 20 Nov, 2003 10:09 pm
Hi Wy, Nice to hear you saying something like that.
What I said "CIA is examining..." meant future tense, cos I thought it is like "is going"... Now it seems not worked.
Stumble It!
Tweet This
Bookmark on Delicious
Share on Facebook
Share on MySpace