The meaning of “but” in “never a woman but...”?

Asked Apr 07 '22 at 13:51

Active Apr 08 '22 at 06:25

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What’s the meaning of the second “but” in the following quote?

Grammar! — what was that but the art of arranging words? — and he never knew a woman but could do that fast enough.

From My French Master, David Moynihan

Does it mean “he never knew a woman, but he could arrange arrange word fast enough”?

edited Apr 08 '22 at 06:25

Andrew Leach

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asked Apr 07 '22 at 13:51

Jonas

I don't know who David Moynihan is. This is by Dickens, isn't it? Published in Household Words in December 1853. – Andrew Leach Apr 07 '22 at 14:11
Please do not answer in comments. If you have an answer, write an answer. It can even be a germ of an answer, but it must not be in comments. – Andrew Leach Apr 07 '22 at 14:34
2

Does this answer your question? Trying to find a grammar rule that explains heavy use of ‘but’ instead of ‘that doesn’t’ in older English ('The "nobbut" construction': J Lawler.) 'There was hardly a lawyer of repute but took up the question, and had an opinion as to Lizzie’s right to the necklace. ― Anthony Trollope' / 'It never rains but [what] it pours.' – Edwin Ashworth Apr 07 '22 at 14:37
@Edwin Ashworth I believe it does! Thank you so much! – Jonas Apr 07 '22 at 16:47

The meaning of “but” in “never a woman but...”?

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