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The construct "He is ALL BUT DEAD"

Expert replies
by dipti.oec » Thu May 02, 2013 9:15 pm
Hi,
I am really confused by the various meanings of the sentences that contain constructs: ALL BUT or ANYTHING BUY or EVERYTHING BUT.

Some sentences are as follows:-
She is all but dead. >>> Does this mean she is nearly dead.
She is anything but rich. >>> Does this mean she is not rich ?
She is nothing but rich. >>> Simply no idea what this should mean ?

I have come across these sentences randomly while reading RC topics over time. Can someone clarify the meaning of the above sentences ; also , it would be great if I can get some more examples of similar constructs.
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Source: — Reading Comprehension |

by Gowri@CrackVerbal » Mon May 06, 2013 12:15 am
Interesting doubt! :)

Here you go:
She is all but dead - this means she is not dead, but very nearly dead.
She is anything but rich - this means she is definitely not rich
She is nothing but rich - this means she is rich

Do keep in mind that the meanings of such usages will not be directly tested on the GMAT. However, knowing these may help when you are reading RC passages. :)
Gowri N Kishore
Verbal Specialist & Mentor
CrackVerbal

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