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Baibai Posted 18 years ago
Grammar

which one is correct between "as herbs of " and "as an herb:.

have bumped into the following sentence and wonder about which one is correct

1.-1 mountain ginsengs were sought as an herb of eternal youth and immortality among many Asian peoples.
1-2Mountain ginsengs were sought as herbs of eternal youth and immortality among many Asian peoples

2-1 mountain ginsengs and home grown ginsengs were sought as an herb of eternal youth and immortalty among many Asian peoples.
2-2. mountain ginsengs and home grown ginsengs were sought as herbs of eternal youth and immortality among many Asian peoples.

Between the above two contrasting sentences, which one is correct in terms of grammar and standard English usage.

Thanks in advance
  

Top answer

I think it depends on your intention. If one may speak of "one gensing" as we speak of "one mushroom," and if you are not speaking of several varieties of ginseng, then I believe both versions are correct. When you use the singular, you're speaking of the genus.

— Avangi

  • I think it depends on your intention.
  • If one may speak of "one gensing" as we speak of "one mushroom," and if you are not speaking of several varieties of ginseng, then I believe both versions are correct.
  • When you use the singular, you're speaking of the genus.
  • When you use the plural, you're speaking of the countable items.
  • If you're speaking of several varieties, then I believe only the plural is correct.
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2 Answers
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I think it depends on your intention. If one may speak of "one gensing" as we speak of "one mushroom," and if you are not speaking of several varieties of ginseng, then I believe both versions are correct. When you use the singular, you're speaking of the genus. When you use the plural, you're speaking of the countable items.

If you're speaking of several varieties, then I believe only
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Thanks for your prompt response.
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