English phrase from drama scenes
What Does "not until you" Mean?
Learn what "not until you" means, when people say it, and how to use it naturally in English.
Intermediate
Neutral
Firm
Set Boundary
Not until you tell me why we can't be together.
It means the speaker will not agree to anything until they get an explanation.
From In Her Shadow, Episode 19
When do people say this?
Scene Context
The speaker refuses to back down until the other person explains why the relationship cannot continue.
Usage Scenario
Use it in a relationship argument when you want an explanation before moving on. It can sound pushy or confrontational if used too directly.
Better ways to say it
1
Not until you tell me why we can't be together.
2
Tell me why we can't be together first.
3
I'm not moving on until you explain why we can't be together.
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