which one is correct, than in a building or than building

Question

Hi, I wonder about which one is a correct expression between the two sets of sentences below

Set A
1. it is obvious that plants are grown in a place other than a building
2. it is obvious that plants are grown in a place other than in a building

Set B
1. the yields of crops can be increased by inhibiting the ripening process
2. the yield of crops can be increased by inhibiting the ripening process
3. the yield of crop can be increased by inhibiting the ripening process

Avangi · Accepted Answer

A. - I prefer 2. because two different senses of "in" are involved. "In a place" really means "at a place," and "in a building" really means "within a building."

To me, "in a place other than a building" ends up meaning "within" a place other than a building. "In a place other than in a building" could be "under a cliff," or "beside a waterfall." By including the preposition at the beginning of the sentence, you allow it to be changed later on.

I'm afraid the more words I expend on this the more confusing it's going to sound. Let me know if this makes sense.

In set B., I'd go for 1. You could also say, "the yield of a crop . . "

I think 2. could also be considered correct, because "yield" can be considered as a scalar quantity, or as a quality, like taste and appearance.

Best wishes, - A.

CalifJim · Answer

A1 is possible. A2 is better in my opinion.
B1 is best among the B's. B2 is OK. B3 is not possible. crop cannot be used as an uncountable noun as is done in B3.
CJ

which one is correct, than in a building or than building

Top answer

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

Related Questions