GalacticCactus Forum

Forums => English & Linguistics => Topic started by: The Genuine on March 29, 2008, 09:45:44 AM

Title: Plurality
Post by: The Genuine on March 29, 2008, 09:45:44 AM

Let's say I'm confronted with a decision whereby I have to select one thing from a number of possible things.  As in, buying breakfast cereal—which flavor/brand to buy?

Am I presented with a single choice, or do I have choices?  Am I presented with a single option, or do I have options?

Title: Plurality
Post by: Jonathon on March 29, 2008, 12:04:14 PM

I think I get what you're asking, but I really can't wrap my head around why. Is this an issue that trips you up? I'd say it depends on context—what exactly are you saying? When picking a cereal, you make a choice. All the different kinds of cereal are choices. You're obviously presented with a lot of options, unless you're in a store that only stocks one kind of cereal.

Title: Plurality
Post by: The Genuine on March 29, 2008, 04:27:41 PM

You can have A, or you can have B.

Have I just presented you with a choice, or have I just presented you with two choices?

Title: Plurality
Post by: Brinestone on March 29, 2008, 05:00:33 PM

The choices are the objects you're choosing between; the choice is what you're making.

Title: Plurality
Post by: The Genuine on March 29, 2008, 05:04:14 PM

How many choices do you have if I say you can have A or B and C or D?

Title: Plurality
Post by: dkw on March 31, 2008, 10:04:58 AM

You have two choices [decisions] to make, and four possible choices [outcomes].  

Unless you want to add in options like choosing not to take one or more at all, or choosing to beat you up and take all four.  

Title: Plurality
Post by: Jonathon on March 31, 2008, 10:09:04 AM

Oops. I forgot about this thread. I agree with dkw.

So what brings this up?

Title: Plurality
Post by: The Genuine on March 31, 2008, 12:01:40 PM

Quote

So what brings this up?

I have no idea.  Just one of those word things.