1

I'm not english and i need someone to explain for me the significance of this phrase: "In TN-S systems, the neutral need not be disconnected if the supply conditions are such that the neutral conductor can be considered to be reliably at earth potential."

In this, "need not be disconnected" is something like "doesn't have to be disconected or "it must not be disconnected?

Improve this question
2
  • Note, the word "reliably" toward the end would be a mistake and should probably be "reliable." Hopefully it's just a mistake in typing? Also, you're braver than me if you're working on electricity without a full understanding of the instructions!
    – Andy Bonner
    Commented Aug 15 at 16:05
  • 1
    Please post a link to the source you quoted. Basically, you wont be wrong, but you might be in hospital. –
    – Phil Sweet
    Commented Aug 15 at 16:08

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
2

You are correct with the first one: "doesn't have to be disconnected". The use of the phrase need not is just that negating term. It is perhaps an antiquated use but does mean what it sounds like: need not, or in the more modern; does not need to be.

Improve this answer
3
  • 1
    thanks for the prompt response
    – bitzy
    Commented Aug 15 at 6:38
  • "What it sounds like" may lead some to confusion. :-) It's a problem of "binding": it could be "the neutral (need not) be disconnected" or "the neutral need (not be) disconnected". The correct one is the first, mostly because "not be disconnected" is awkward (incorrect one paired with need?), and because of customary usage. Proficient (especially native) speakers take it for granted, but learners doubt. :-)
    – Pablo H
    Commented Aug 15 at 13:19
  • @AndyBonner opps - moved it
    – Phil Sweet
    Commented Aug 15 at 16:08

You must log in to answer this question.