Common American Phrases in Everyday Contexts (226 page)

What if I do?
Does it matter to you if I do it?; What difference does it make if I do it? (Saucy and colloquial.)
T
OM
: Are you really going to sell your leather coat? B
OB
: What if I do?
J
ANE
: You're not going to go out dressed like that, are you? S
UE
: So, what if I do?

What if I don't?
Does it matter to you if I do not do it?; What difference does it make if I do not do it? (Saucy and colloquial.)
B
OB
: You're certainly going to tidy up a bit before going out, aren't you? T
OM
: What if I don't?
F
ATHER
: You are going to get in by midnight tonight or you're grounded. F
RED
: So what if I don't? F
ATHER
: That's enough! You're grounded as of this minute!

What is it?
What do you want from me?; Why do you want to get my attention? (There is also a literal meaning.)
T
OM
: John, can I talk to you for a minute? J
OHN
: What is it?
S
UE
: Jane? J
ANE
: What is it? S
UE
: Close the door, please.

What makes you think so? 1
.
Why do you think that?; What is your evidence for that conclusion?
T
OM
: This bread may be a little old. A
LICE
: What makes you think so? T
OM
: The green spots on the edges
.
B
OB
: Congress is in session again. T
OM
: What makes you think so? B
OB
: My wallet's empty
.
2
.
Is that not totally obvious? (Sarcastic.)
J
OHN
: I think I'm putting on a little weight. M
ARY
: Oh, yeah? What makes you think so?
M
ARY
(shivering): Gee, I think it's going to be winter soon. A
LICE
(also shivering): Yeah? What makes you think so?

What more can I do?
AND
What else can I do?
I am at a loss to know what else to do.; Is there anything else I can do? (An expression of desperation, not an inquiry.)
B
OB
: Did you hear about the death in the Wilson family. B
ILL
: Yes. I feel so helpless. I sent flowers. What more can I do?
B
ILL
: Is your child still sick? M
ARY
: Yes. I'm giving her the medicine the doctor sent over. What more can I do?