have...but not...; seemingly have and not have
Meanings
4 senses · 12 examplespattern
having the former but lacking the latter; possess A but not B
Used in idioms to describe situations where one quality exists but another is absent. Often implies imbalance or deficiency.
He is a blunt person who speaks without thinking; please don't take offense.
This company exists in name only, with no actual business operations.
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He never finishes what he starts, always giving up halfway.
You are truly blind not to see such an obvious mistake.
He has courage but no strategy; although brave, he lacks tactics.
pattern
having the former without the latter (emphatic expression); excessive rather than insufficient
formalEmphasizes that the degree of the former is excessive compared to the latter, often meaning 'more than' or 'rather than lacking'.
His enthusiasm is more than sufficient, more active than any of us.
Recently the conflict has been escalating without end, becoming increasingly serious.
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The trend of rising prices shows no sign of ending, putting great pressure on ordinary people.
pattern
having the former eliminates the need for the latter; preparedness prevents worry
Expresses a conditional or preventive relationship where the first element eliminates the possibility or worry of the second.
We should prepare in advance so that we have no worries later, avoiding last-minute panic.
Because he has backing, he fears nothing and dares to do anything.
pattern
seemingly present yet seemingly absent; ambiguous; half-intentional
Describes something that appears to exist and not exist simultaneously, often implying ambiguity, insincerity, or a tentative attitude.
He mentioned that matter casually, seemingly intentionally and unintentionally, to test my reaction.
She glanced at him ambiguously, without speaking.