ifs and buts

English

Alternative forms

ifs or buts (see usage note)

Noun

ifs and buts pl (plural only)

Conditions, limitations or qualifications placed on something.
I'm not happy with this contract. There are too many ifs and buts.

Go and clean your room now, and no ifs or buts!

Usage notes

Typically ifs and buts when positive polarity, and ifs or buts when negative.

See also

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