This is a perfect example of how a phrase or sentence can have two completely opposite meanings. Let's call on our Sentinel friends for a little help.( Read more... )
Does adding "with" change this sentence: "He fought [with] someone"?campylobacterFebruary 9 2015, 17:32:06 UTC
It's probably simpler to reword the sentence so that you don't use 'with'.
Agreed. "With" isn't the optimal preposition to use as a particle for "fight", as it introduces ambiguity.
AMBIGUOUS: "Buffy fought WITH Agent Carter to beat the Daleks." CLEARER: "Buffy AND Agent Carter fought AGAINST the Daleks." OR: "Buffy fought WITH Agent Carter about the best way to beat the Daleks."
My usage might also differ if I mean to describe a physical fight or a verbal one. I might say I fought with my mother if we had a shouting match, but I would not say I fought her unless I mean that blows were exchanged.
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Agreed. "With" isn't the optimal preposition to use as a particle for "fight", as it introduces ambiguity.
AMBIGUOUS: "Buffy fought WITH Agent Carter to beat the Daleks."
CLEARER: "Buffy AND Agent Carter fought AGAINST the Daleks."
OR: "Buffy fought WITH Agent Carter about the best way to beat the Daleks."
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