Quote:
Originally Posted by jctgf  "When TEST BEFORE is indicated, all specified conditions are tested before
the first execution, and the statements to be performed are executed, if
at all, only when all specified tests fail. When TEST AFTER is indicated,
the statements to be performed are executed at least once, before any
condition is tested."
hi,
what does the expression "if at all" mean, please?
thanks |
I'm not a teacher, but I understand the phrase to be emphasising the fact that certain actions will take place
only under very specific circumstances.
The statements to be performed are executed only when all specified tests fail.
AND
The statements to be performed are executed, if at all, only when all specified tests fail.
both carry the same meaning. The addition of the phrase "if at all" serves to stress the uncommon nature, the low frequency of occurrence of the action thus labelled. It's as if the speaker or writer is pausing and stressing very strongly that the action is NOT to be performed except in the situation outlined.