1. Kay9

    Kay9 New Member

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    Grammar Why is the former more common?

    Discussion in 'Word Mechanics' started by Kay9, Jan 27, 2019.

    I'm only satisfied when I eat food that I cook.
    I'm satisfied only when I eat food that I cook.

    The first word order is more common. However, generally speaking, a modifier modifies the closest eligible word or phrase. In a case like this, it means the emphasis of only is on the condition phrase, not on the word 'satisfied'. Therefore, the latter should be more common, according to this general rule. I want to know why is the former more common?
     
  2. EBohio

    EBohio Banned

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    So why did you start a new thread about this when it is going on here: https://www.writingforums.org/threads/whats-the-difference-b-w-im-only-satisfied-when-and-im-satisfied-only-when.160971
     
    Matt E and Lawless like this.

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