Malcolm Rivera
The phrase does not constitute is used to express that something does not meet the criteria or requirements to be considered something else. In the context of either one or the other, the phrase does not constitute can be used to indicate that something is neither one nor the other. For example, the evidence does not constitute proof of either one or the other theory. Here, the use of does not constitute highlights that the evidence does not fulfill the criteria to support or confirm either of the theories. This phraseology can be a powerful tool to convey uncertainty, ambiguity, or a lack of definitive conclusions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Use of "either" | Indicates a choice between two options |
| Use of "neither" | Indicates neither option is acceptable |
| Use of "or" | Connects two singular or plural subjects |
| Use of "nor" | Connects two or more people, things, or actions |
| Use of "one or the other" | Refers to one of two people or things |
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What You'll Learn
Either/neither as pronouns
"Either" and "neither" are commonly used words in the English language, often employed to denote choice or agreement and disagreement. However, their role and application change slightly when they are used as pronouns.
As pronouns, "either" and "neither" are used to mean 'one or the other of two' and 'not one or the other of two', respectively. They help the speaker or writer avoid repeating words or phrases in a sentence. For example, instead of saying, "Do you want the red dress or the blue dress?" you could say, "Do you want either [dress]?". Here, 'either' represents either dress, and the speaker avoids having to repeat the noun.
"Either" is often used in a positive way, when one option will be chosen. For example, "Either candidate is right for the job" means that one of the two candidates is suitable. On the other hand, "neither" is used when both options are not acceptable. For example, "Neither candidate is right for the job" means that neither of the two candidates is suitable.
It is important to note that when "either" and "neither" are used as pronouns, they should always be followed by a singular verb. For example, "Either is nice for the party" or "Neither is optional". This is because when 'either' or 'neither' is used as the subject of the sentence, it is considered singular. Additionally, when used with 'of', 'either' and 'neither' can refer to one of more than two items or people, but they should be used with a plural noun and a singular verb. For example, "Either of the candidates is right for the job".
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Either/or and neither/nor constructions
The "either/or" and "neither/nor" constructions are used to present alternatives or to indicate that none of the alternatives is true, respectively.
"Either/or" is used to offer a choice between two things. For example, "You can either call me at home or at the office". The main difference between "either/or" and "neither/nor" is that "either/or" is used in a positive sense to show a choice or action will be made, e.g., "I will either walk or run".
When using "either/or", the verb tense depends on the noun closest to it. For example, "Either the compressor or the drill bits are going to have to be moved from this area". "Either the drill bits or the compressor is going to have to be moved from this area".
"Neither/nor" is used to state that two or more things are untrue or will not happen. For example, "I will do neither this nor that". "Neither/nor" is used in a negative sense to show that none of the alternatives is chosen, e.g., "I will neither call you nor send you a message before midday".
When using "neither/nor", it is important to avoid using a double negative. For example, "He ordered neither the core barrels nor the core catcher" is correct, while "He did not order neither the core barrels nor the core catcher" is incorrect.
Both "either/or" and "neither/nor" can be used as the subject or object of a sentence. For example, "Either Susan or Maggie ate my chocolate chip cookie" ("either Susan or Maggie" is the subject). "My chocolate chip cookie must have been eaten by either Susan or Maggie" ("either Susan or Maggie" is the object).
"Either" and "neither" can be used in various ways, including as adverbs, adjectives, determiners, pronouns, or correlative conjunctions. For example, in the sentence "Do either of you play football?", "either" is a pronoun. In the sentence "Neither Mr Smith nor Mrs Jones came to the meeting", "neither" is an adjective.
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Singular or plural verbs
In English, verbs must match their subjects in number (singular or plural). For example, we say 'she dances' (singular verb with a singular subject) but 'they dance' (plural verb with a plural subject). Using the wrong verb can cause confusion and misunderstandings. It can also make one seem less professional, especially in important situations like job interviews or meetings.
The word 'either' is used when referring to a choice between two options. For example, "Either one deserves to win". It can also be used in a negative way, instead of the words 'also' or 'too'. For instance, "I haven't visited there either". The words 'each', 'each one', 'either', 'everyone', 'nobody', and 'someone', among others, are singular and require a singular verb. For example, "Either is correct".
Nouns such as 'civics', 'mathematics', 'dollars', 'measles', and 'news' require singular verbs. For instance, "The news is on at six". However, when referring to an amount of money, 'dollars' requires a singular verb, but when referring to the physical dollar bills, a plural verb is needed. Nouns like 'scissors', 'tweezers', 'trousers', and 'shears' require plural verbs. For example, "These scissors are dull".
In sentences beginning with "there is" or "there are", the subject follows the verb. Since "there" is not the subject, the verb agrees with what follows. For instance, "There is a question". Collective nouns, such as 'group', 'team', 'committee', 'class', and 'family', imply more than one person but are considered singular and take a singular verb. For example, "The team runs during practice". Expressions such as 'with', 'together with', 'including', 'accompanied by', 'in addition to', or 'as well' do not change the number of the subject. If the subject is singular, the verb is too. For example, "The President, accompanied by his wife, is travelling to India".
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Negative connotations
The phrase "does not constitute either one or the other" can carry negative connotations, particularly when used in certain contexts or with specific word choices. Here are some paragraphs elaborating on this:
The phrase "does not constitute" inherently suggests a lack of formation or definition, which can be viewed negatively. It implies that something is amorphous or undefined, lacking clarity and specificity. This vagueness can be problematic, especially in situations that require precise communication, such as legal or academic contexts. For instance, consider the sentence, "This behaviour does not constitute either a crime or a misdemeanour." The negative connotation here lies in the uncertainty it creates, as it fails to provide a clear understanding of the consequences or implications of the behaviour in question.
The use of "either... or" in the phrase can also contribute to negative connotations. "Either" often implies a choice or a preference between two options. However, when combined with "not," as in "does not constitute," it can suggest that neither option is satisfactory or acceptable. For example, "This product does not constitute either a good investment or a wise purchase." Here, the negative connotation arises from the implied dissatisfaction or disappointment with the product, as it fails to meet either of the desired criteria.
In some cases, the negative connotation of the phrase may be intentional. It can be used to express criticism, skepticism, or disagreement. For instance, consider the sentence, "This theory does not constitute either a valid argument or a scientific explanation." Here, the phrase is used to dismiss the theory as inadequate or flawed, conveying a negative perspective on its validity and usefulness. The phrase "does not constitute" can be a powerful tool to undermine or reject something by suggesting that it fails to meet the required standards or expectations.
The phrase's negative connotation can also be influenced by the words surrounding it. Certain adjectives or adverbs can amplify the negativity. For example, "This painting does not constitute either a beautiful work of art or a meaningful expression of emotion, in my opinion." The addition of "beautiful" and "meaningful" enhances the negative connotation by emphasizing the speaker's subjective disappointment or disagreement. The phrase "in my opinion" further underscores the personal nature of the negative judgment.
While the phrase inherently carries a negative connotation, it is important to note that the context and tone can modify its perception. The same phrase can be used in different scenarios to convey varying levels of negativity or even neutrality. For instance, "This data does not constitute either conclusive proof or sufficient evidence to support the claim." Here, the phrase is used in a more objective, factual manner, conveying a lack of evidence without necessarily carrying a strong negative judgment.
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Positive connotations
The phrase "does not constitute" is used to express that something does not meet the criteria or requirements to be considered something else. This phrase can be used in various contexts, conveying a range of positive and negative connotations.
Focusing on the positive connotations, the phrase "does not constitute either one or the other" can imply a sense of neutrality or non-commitment. In some cases, it may suggest that something is not limited to a binary choice or category. For example, when someone says, "Their behaviour does not constitute a criminal investigation, but it doesn't preclude one either," they imply that the situation is not definitive and that further inquiry may be warranted. This usage showcases flexibility and openness to multiple possibilities.
In a different context, the phrase can convey a positive message of inclusivity or expansion. For instance, consider the sentence, "The association provided guidance that a voluntary swap would not constitute a default." Here, the use of "does not constitute" indicates a broadening of options or a willingness to consider alternatives. It suggests that a voluntary swap could be interpreted as something other than a default, potentially opening up new avenues or opportunities.
Additionally, the phrase can be used to emphasize the uniqueness or distinctiveness of something. By stating that something "does not constitute either one or the other," one could highlight that a particular situation or entity transcends simple categorization. For example, "The road up and down are one and the same; either the road leads both ways, or there can be no road at all." Here, the use of "does not constitute" challenges binary thinking and invites a more nuanced perspective.
In certain contexts, "does not constitute" can also convey a sense of balance or moderation. For instance, consider the sentence, "Either candidate is right for the job; both candidates are right for the job." Here, the use of "either/or" suggests a balanced perspective, indicating that both options have merit and that a combination of qualities or skills might be ideal.
Overall, while the phrase "does not constitute either one or the other" can have negative connotations in certain contexts, it can also be used positively to express neutrality, openness to possibilities, inclusivity, uniqueness, and balance.
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Frequently asked questions
It means that whatever is being discussed does not make up or form a particular thing. It is not a part of, nor does it define, the referred subject.
Yes, even though something 'does not constitute' a particular thing, it can still be closely related or connected. It may share characteristics or have an impact on the subject but does not solely define or make up the whole.
The phrase "does not constitute" is often misunderstood as a definitive separation or disassociation. People may interpret it as a strong denial of any connection, which is not always the case. It is important to understand that this phrase often indicates a nuanced relationship where something is distinct yet still potentially relevant or influential.
