diagramming complex sentences

[brandonhsi]

I need help to confirm my understanding is correct.

"Independent arbitration would avert a strike, but only if both sides agree to accept the arbitrator's recommendations as binding."

I am thinking if this sentence could be viewed as 1. and/or 2. below:

1. (A ---> B) ---> C
2. (A ---> B) and (A --->C)

A: Independent arbitration
B: avert a strike
C: both sides agree to accept the arbitrator's recommendations as binding

If both 1. and 2. are correct, then I think ~C ---> ~A, and ~C ---> ~(A ---> B).

Thanks!

[tommywallach]

Hey Brandon,

So the takeaway would be:

If independent arbitration averted a strike, then both sides agreed to accept arbitrator's rec.

However you choose to diagram it, that's the meaning you would want. The contra would then be "If both sides didn't agree to accept, then independent arbitration did not avert a strike."

I believe that's how you're writing it, in which case, well done!

-t