Author Topic: Plurality (Read 1839 times)

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?

Jonathon · « **Reply #1 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.

The Genuine · « **Reply #2 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?

Brinestone · « **Reply #3 on:** March 29, 2008, 05:00:33 PM »

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

The Genuine · « **Reply #4 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?

dkw · « **Reply #5 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.

Jonathon · « **Reply #6 on:** March 31, 2008, 10:09:04 AM »

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

So what brings this up?

The Genuine · « **Reply #7 on:** March 31, 2008, 12:01:40 PM »

Quote

So what brings this up?

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