In this article, we will explore the use of the word ‘as’ in the sentence: ‘A discussion need never become an argument, as it so often does in the West. Because the point being discussed is never “important,” argument is unlikely.’
The Meaning of ‘As’ in Context
In this sentence, ‘as’ is used to show a comparison or contrast between the discussion in the West and the discussion elsewhere. It does not imply causation or time, but instead highlights the frequency or common occurrence of something in a particular context. In other words, the sentence emphasizes that discussions in the West often turn into arguments, but that does not happen in other places.
Why ‘As’ Cannot Be Translated as ‘だけれども’
The suggestion to translate ‘as’ as ‘だけれども’ is not entirely accurate in this context. ‘だけれども’ is used to show a contrast, but in this case, ‘as’ is not directly contrasting two ideas. Instead, it is used to show a comparison of frequency. Therefore, a more fitting translation might be ‘〜のように’ or ‘〜であるように’, emphasizing the manner or occurrence of something.
Explaining ‘As’ in English Grammar
In English, ‘as’ can function in several ways: to show comparison, cause, or time. In this sentence, it functions to show frequency, indicating how often an action happens in one place compared to another. This usage is common in comparisons, where ‘as’ is used to connect two clauses or ideas, often with a verb that describes an action.
Example Sentences to Illustrate the Use of ‘As’
For example: ‘As she was walking, she saw a dog.’ Here, ‘as’ indicates that the two actions (walking and seeing the dog) happened at the same time. Another example could be: ‘He runs as fast as a cheetah.’ Here, ‘as’ shows comparison in speed. However, in your sentence, ‘as’ is not about timing or comparison in quality but about the frequency of an event.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ‘as’ in the sentence ‘as it so often does in the West’ serves to indicate frequency and comparison. It is not the same as ‘だけれども’ (but) in this case, and understanding its grammatical role can help clarify its meaning. By recognizing the function of ‘as’ in context, we can more accurately interpret and translate such sentences.
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