Meaning
The issue is more about Y than X.
Primary Function
Nuanced redefinition of a problem
Communicative Purpose
To reframe a debate by shifting emphasis
Pattern
It’s not so much a question of NOUN1 as of NOUN2
Core Structure
cleft-like ‘not so much… as’ with ‘question of’
Função primária
Nuanced redefinition of a problem
Propósito comunicativo
To reframe a debate by shifting emphasis
Situações de gatilho
Clarifying misunderstandings, intellectual discussion
Contextos
Academic, formal debates
Padrão
It’s not so much a question of NOUN1 as of NOUN2
Estrutura central
cleft-like ‘not so much… as’ with ‘question of’
Slots de substituição
noun1; noun2
Colocados típicos
- It’s not so much a question of money as of time.
Substituições comuns
- ‘It’s more a matter of … than …’
Erros comuns
Leaving out the second ‘of’: e.g., saying *a question money* instead of *a question of money*
Similar / contraste
‘It’s more about …’ (which emphasizes greater importance rather than redefinition)
Interferências
The structure is complex; learners often omit or misplace the preposition ‘of’, leading to grammatical errors in academic writing.
Família do chunk
- reframing frames
Nuance
Conveys sophisticated analytical intent, indicating that while both options are relevant, one carries primary relevance in the given context.
Efeito pragmático
Signals a shift from surface‑level discussion toward deeper consideration of underlying factors, fostering critical thinking and refined argumentation.
Dica de memória
‘It’s not so much a question of X as of Y’
Nota
This chunk is used to reframe a discussion by emphasizing one aspect over another, often in academic or formal debates. It is a semi-fixed structure that requires careful attention to prepositions.
Upgrade path
“It’s not so much a question of ability as of willingness.”
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