Stating conditions (2)

Tip 59. Stating conditions (2)

Which sentence is incorrect?

A. Only when we receive your written consent will we use your personal data for marketing purposes.

Wrong answer, try again!

B. Only after having to pay a large fine did the company's directors understand the importance of obtaining professional legal advice.

Wrong answer, try again!

C. Only by concluding an agreement in writing you can be sure of your rights and obligations.

Correct answer!

Sentence C is grammatically incorrect – it should read "...can you be sure..."

All four sentences beginning 'Only...' require an inverted structure in the second half:

Only when ...will we do...

Only after +ing ...did it pay...

Only by +ing ...can you be...

Only once ...will they do...

D. Only once you have taken ownership of the land will the bank be prepared to release the approved funds for construction to begin.

Wrong answer, try again!