Ever hear a phrase that seems to have its own special, “frozen” grammar? These are idiomatic expressions where the grammar is part of the idiom itself. Learning them is a sign of high-level fluency and allows you to add a sophisticated, native-like flavor to your speech and writing. 🧊
Function & Usage
These fixed expressions act as “chunks” of language. We don’t analyze their grammar; we learn them as a whole to express a specific idea, like conceding a point, generalizing, or showing effort. Their structure is unchangeable.
- Concession (Be that as it may): A formal way to say “I accept that is true, but…” It’s used to acknowledge a point before introducing an opposing one.
Example: “The movie was very long. Be that as it may, it was still very enjoyable.” - Generalization (By and large): Means “in general” or “for the most part.”
Example: “By and large, the new software has been very successful.” - Effort (Try as I might): Means “even though I tried very hard.” It emphasizes the difficulty and failure of an attempt.
Example: “Try as I might, I could not open the jar.” - Acceptance (So be it): A phrase used to show you accept a situation, often one that you don’t like.
Example: “If he doesn’t want to help, then so be it. We’ll do it ourselves.”
The Structure (Form)
The grammar of these phrases is fixed. You cannot change the words, tenses, or word order. They must be memorized and used as complete units.
[Fixed Phrase], + [Main Clause].
Example: Come what may, we will finish this project.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Changing the words: The structure is completely frozen. You cannot change the grammar inside the phrase. Incorrect: “Be this as it may…” or “Tried as I might…” Correct: “Be that as it may…” “Try as I might…“
- Using them in the wrong context: Many of these phrases, like “Be that as it may,” are quite formal. Using them in a very casual conversation can sound unnatural.
Let’s see it in action! 🎬
Manager: The sales numbers are down this quarter. That’s a serious problem.
Colleague: I agree. Be that as it may, our customer satisfaction scores have never been higher.
Friend 1: Was the book good?
Friend 2: By and large, yes. The beginning was a bit slow, but the ending was fantastic.
Person A: I can’t believe I couldn’t solve that simple puzzle!
Person B: Don’t worry about it.
Person A: But I feel so silly. Try as I might, I just couldn’t see the answer.
Check Your Understanding! ✅
1. Be that as it , we still need to find a solution.
2. , the event was a great success.
3. Try as I , I couldn’t remember his name.
4. If they insist on leaving, then so be .
5. Come may, I will always support you.
6. “___, the conference was very informative.” (Which phrase means “in general”?)
7. “He made some good points. ___, his overall argument was weak.” (Which phrase concedes a point?)
8. “___, I couldn’t convince him.” (Which phrase emphasizes effort and failure?)
9. Choose the correct phrase: “___, we will face the challenge together.”
10. “If you’re determined to proceed with that risky plan, then ___.” (Which phrase shows reluctant acceptance?)
