Sentence agreement. To that or not to that.

Forums: Grammar, English, Esl
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Hi. I'm trying to say this in a way that is both impactful and grammatically correct. Appreciate any feedback.

Only when truly tested,
may we prove our mettle.

It's only when we are truly tested,
that we may prove our mettle.

I think the 'that' is wrong. But I like the way it feels. Is 'may' OK even though it's technically 'can'

Thanks!

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Type: Question • Score: 4 • Views: 447 • Replies: 6

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@redviking,

redviking wrote:

Hi. I'm trying to say this in a way that is both impactful and grammatically correct. Appreciate any feedback.

Only when truly tested,
may we prove our mettle.

It's only when we are truly tested,
that we may prove our mettle.

I think the 'that' is wrong. But I like the way it feels. Is 'may' OK even though it's technically 'can'

Thanks!

Honestly, the two things seem to be making different points. But be that as it may, I think the point you probably are trying to make would have greater impact if you switched the way you are phrasing it.

"The only way we can truly prove our mettle ...is when we are tested.

I'm not sure I agree completely with the thrust of the comment, but if you suppose it to be so, I would reword it. The way you have it sounds like a motto...or something that might be embroidered onto a wall hanging.

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@redviking,

I like the first one, using "may," and I believe it is grammatically correct.

And if I'm incorrect, the grammar mavens will soon be here to pick at the nits.

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@redviking,

The 'that' is grammatically not wrong at all. You can let it stand. I would remove that unnecessary comma, however.

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@redviking,

Thanks! And yes, it's an option for a headline so meant to be grandiose.

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@Ticomaya,

Ticomaya wrote:

And if I'm incorrect, the grammar mavens will soon be here to pick at the nits.

So, if you are wrong, only a "nitpicker" would stoop so low as to disagree with what your wrote?

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@contrex,

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Sentence agreement. To that or not to that.

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