English Grammar

Question

Can you please dissect the following paragraph for me and tell me precisely what is means?"We have received your request for custom made orthotics/orthopaedic shoes."

Clive · Accepted Answer

Hi,

Can you please try first, so that we can see what you are OK with and what you have difficulty with?

Thanks, Clive

Anonymous · Answer

I think that "custom made" is the active pronoun applying to both orthotics and orthopaedic shoes.  My compatriot believes "custom made" applies to orthotics only.

Clive · Answer

Hi,

I think that "custom made" is the active pronoun applying to both orthotics and orthopaedic shoes. My compatriot believes "custom made" applies to orthotics only.

'Custom made' is an adjective. It should be written with a hyphen.

In your sentence as written, it's not grammatically clear whether the adjective is intended to describe both items. Usually, however, a slash between two items like this denotes that either term can be used in the context, so that does suggest the adjective can be applied to either one.

In terms of meaning, I think most people would expect that these items will be custom-made if they have to be specially requested instead of simply bought in a store.

Best wishes, Clive

English Grammar

Top answer

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

Related Questions