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  1. #1
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    Default inversion of order!

    Hi Guys!

    On this occasion, I'd like to know whether it is possible to use inversion of order in its negative form. As a matter of fact, I have never seen it.

    HAD I KNOWN YOU NEEDED ME, I WOULD HAVE CALLED YOU! (3RD CONDITIONAL- INVERSION OF ORDER FOR EMPHASIS

    SO FAR SO GOOD! BUT, WHAT ABOUT:

    HADN'T I REALIZED THERE WAS A MISTAKE IN THE REPORT, THE CEO WOULD HAVE FIRED ME

    WHAT DO YOU THINK?
    THANKS ALL

  2. #2
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    Default Re: inversion of order!

    Inversion is used often times to stress negative situations. However, in this case you are using it as a formal way to replace an "if" (conditional) clause. If you can build that conditional sentence in a negative way, I see no issue in using this same negative form when you use the inversion.

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    Default Re: inversion of order!

    Gentle,

    Thanks for your help!
    See u
    D

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    Default Re: inversion of order!

    The first sentence is perfectly fine. The second one, however, sounds a bit off to me.

    I've always seen "Had I not..." and not "Hadn't I..."

    Maybe that's why it doesn't sound fully acceptable to me...

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    Default Re: inversion of order!

    Flor, the negative in inversion of order with the adverb of negation after the subject makes sense and sounds much more natural.
    Thanks a lot

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    Default Re: inversion of order!

    I'm glad it helped!

    "Had I not realized..." does sound better right?

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    Default Re: inversion of order!

    When used with a verb of motion, an adverb or adverb phrase of location may be placed at the beginning of a clause, followed immediately by the verb, followed by the noun subject of theverb.

  8. #8
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    Default Re: inversion of order!

    Agree 100%: "Had I not" is the right way to say it!

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