Saturday, September 22, 2018

difference - "as we discuss in detail in a moment" - why not "as we'll discuss"?




The term 'raising verb' is potentially confusing. It is not the verb itself that undergoes movement. Rather, it is the complement subject that raises into the matrix clause, as we discuss in detail in a moment. (a webpage)



I understand that the authors use the Present Simple in a way similar to its use in description of scheduled events:



I fly into Bombay at noon, and then speak at the conference at 3:00 p.m.



But since it's due to happen "in a moment", it's unlikely to have been scheduled, so wouldn't it be better to say "we'll discuss"?


Is there any difference in tone between "we discuss" and "we'll discuss" and which construction is preferable in this context (textbook narrative)?



Answer



It depends on how the writer wants you to perceive the web page.



If they want you to think of it as a completed document, which you are coming along and reading now that it's done, then the present is appropriate. "My explanation already exists. You haven't gotten to it yet, but it's there."


If they want you to think of it as them talking to you, then the future - "we'll discuss" - would be more appropriate.


Both are correct; they just evoke different tones.


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