In the sentence ‘Who do as little work as they can possibly get away with,’ the word ‘possibly’ plays an important role in conveying the meaning. If you’re wondering why ‘possibly’ is used here and how it changes the meaning, you’re not alone! Let’s break it down to understand its function in this context.
1. The Role of ‘Possibly’ in the Sentence
The word ‘possibly’ is an adverb that modifies the verb phrase ‘get away with.’ It adds a layer of uncertainty or possibility to the action. When you say ‘as little work as they can possibly get away with,’ you are emphasizing that the person is doing the minimum possible work that they could get away with, but there is an implied uncertainty or range in what ‘getting away with’ might mean. It’s not an exact amount, but the least amount they think they can get away with.
2. Why ‘Possibly’ is Important Here
Without ‘possibly,’ the phrase ‘as little work as they can get away with’ would still convey the idea, but ‘possibly’ adds nuance to it. It highlights the flexibility in how much work they may do. For example, someone might do as little work as they can, but with ‘possibly,’ it suggests that the exact amount is variable or dependent on the situation.
3. How ‘Possibly’ Affects the Overall Meaning
In casual English, ‘possibly’ can be used to soften the statement, making it sound less rigid. This phrase suggests that the person in question isn’t certain about how little work they can do, but they’re trying to get away with as little as possible, subject to the circumstances. It’s a way of acknowledging uncertainty while still conveying intent.
4. Difference Between ‘Possibly’ and Similar Phrases
It’s important to note that ‘possibly’ doesn’t simply mean ‘maybe.’ In this context, it suggests a bit more likelihood or a strategic approach. It implies that the person is actively trying to minimize effort, whereas without ‘possibly,’ the sentence might be more definite in meaning, as if they are sure about how much work they can avoid.
5. Conclusion
In conclusion, ‘possibly’ in the phrase ‘as little work as they can possibly get away with’ serves to convey flexibility, uncertainty, and the idea that the exact amount of work being done is not fixed but depends on the situation. It adds subtlety to the action, allowing for a range of possibilities rather than a concrete outcome. Understanding this nuance helps in interpreting the sentence correctly in conversation.
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