Indefinite Concessive Relation

Overview

An indefinite concessive relation signifies that a statement or proposition is true, regardless of certain conditions or circumstances that might otherwise seem to prevent it. It highlights a surprising or unexpected outcome.

Key Concepts

The core idea is that a situation prevails despite an unspecified or general counter-expectation.

• Unspecified Condition: The obstacle is not explicitly stated.
• Unexpected Truth: The main clause is true even if the implied condition were met.
• Contrast: It sets up a logical contrast between a potential obstacle and the actual outcome.

Deep Dive

These relations are often signaled by conjunctions and phrases that introduce a general or hypothetical obstacle. The focus is on the inevitability of the main clause’s truth.

Consider the structure:

[Main Clause] + [Concessive Marker] + [Indefinite Condition]

Example: “He will go to the party, whatever happens.” This implies that no matter what events unfold, his attendance is certain.

Applications

Indefinite concessive relations are common in everyday speech and writing, adding nuance and emphasis.

• Expressing Determination: “I will finish this project, come what may.”
• Highlighting Resilience: “The team succeeded, no matter the difficulties.”
• Emphasizing Universality: “This rule applies to everyone, regardless of their status.”

Challenges & Misconceptions

A common misconception is confusing indefinite concessives with specific concessive clauses. The former deals with any possible circumstance, while the latter specifies a particular one.

Indefinite concessives create a broader sense of inevitability than specific ones.

FAQs

What is the difference between an indefinite and a specific concessive?

A specific concessive states a particular condition (e.g., “Although it rained, we went out”), while an indefinite one refers to any possible condition (e.g., “Whatever the weather, we will go out”).

Are there other terms for this?

Yes, they can sometimes be referred to as universal concessives or open concessives.