difficult term ("computer speak")

Question

Hi,There is a software that allows for two different ways of "activation":(1) remote activation (via a remote server)(2) local activation (on a local computer)Now, to my question.Which of the following expressions do you think are grammatical and meaningful enough to be used for "local activation"?(1) user-side activation (or client-side activation)(2) on-the-spot activation (3) in-site activation (4) activation on the user sideHope this question makes sense to you.mus-te

Clive · Accepted Answer

What's wrong with 'local activation'?

You can't say 'a software'. It's uncountable.
Say
eg a piece of software
eg a software package/product
eg an application

Clive

MUSCOVITE · Answer

CliveWhat's wrong with 'local activation'?

I am 100% sure there is nothing wrong with "local activation":-).
In fact I was asking about the phrases client-side activation, on-the-spot-activation, etc.
I need a native speaker's help....can these alternatives be used for "local activation" (in computer speak at least)?

CliveYou can't say 'a software'. It's uncountable.

A couple of curious quotes if I may:

(1) Mister Micawber (Apr 29, 2007): Unfortunately, software is gaining countability, in spite of all my efforts to quell the trend.
(2) Cool Breeze:
Mr M., what's so unfortunate about the trend? A new software is much more succinct than a piece of new software or a new software program and to my mind the present trend just reflects the malleability of English, which is one of its strengths. Don't get me wrong, I'm not advocating countability for software, I'm just observing development.

Since the days of Old English, English has changed beyond recognizability and no doubt will keep changing, in spite of your strenuous efforts. Are you one of those whose motto is: Let nothing change my language while I'm alive!

I respect your opinion, of course.

Cheers
CB

Clive · Answer

Hi,

You can't say 'a software'. It's uncountable.

I didn't meant that the grammar police will come and arrest you!

I simply meant that you won't sound like a native speaker.

Clive

MUSCOVITE · Answer

It doesn't matter whether I write "a software" or just "software".
I wouldn't sound like a native speaker in either case: I have a VERY thick Russian accent

CalifJim · Answer

MUSCOVITEIt doesn't matter whether I write "a software" or just "software".I wouldn't sound like a native speaker in either case

But we can't hear your accent if you write it! (Let up on those L's, will you?)

I'd say client-side, by the way.

CJ

MUSCOVITE · Answer

CalifJimI'd say client-side, by the way.

difficult term ("computer speak")

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