ifs and buts

Alternative forms

 * ifs or buts (see usage note)

Noun

 * 1) Conditions, limitations or qualifications placed on something.
 * I'm not happy with this contract. There are too many ifs and buts.
 * Go and clean your room now, and no ifs or buts!

Usage notes
Typically ifs and buts when positive polarity, and ifs or buts when negative.