[Grammar] using 'or' to combine sentences

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Delphine

Junior Member
Joined
Dec 25, 2005
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English Teacher
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Chinese
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Hong Kong
Current Location
Hong Kong
Combine the following sentences with 'or'. Which of the following is correct, a or b?

1. I can't run fast. I can't swim fast.

a. I can't run or swim fast.
b. I can't run fast or swim fast.

2. John can't play the piano. John can't play the guitar.

a. John can't play the piano or guitar.
b. John can't play the piano or the guitar.

3. We can't go to the library. We can't go to the playground.

a. We can't go to the library or playground.
b. We can't go to the library or the playground.

Thanks!
 
They are all correct, with no difference in meaning.

Rover
 
Sometimes there's a problem if it's not certain whether it's an inclusive or exclusive 'or'.
"If you can't sing or dance or act, we don't need you."
This could mean you need to be able to do at least one, or all three.
 
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