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Uktous Posted 16 years ago
Grammar
Why do I use singular word for motivation(s), ambition(s) and opportunity (ies)?
Hi,
Question:
Why should I write "motivation, ambition and opportunity" in singular or plural word in my sentence?
Sentence:
I have the motivation(s) and ambition(s) to qualify as an accountant.
I believe your company can provide me with good career opportunity(ies) and can provide me with the opportunity(ies) to learn a wide range of skills.
Background:
I have asked some people. All of them suggest singular should be used.
However, they did not explain.
I have more than 1 motivation, eg, money, girls and success.
There will be more than 1 opportunity to learn, eg, one opportunity per week.
There will be more than 1 career opportunity, eg, opportunity to promote in each year end.
However, all people suggest singular word should be used.
Thanks
Question:
Why should I write "motivation, ambition and opportunity" in singular or plural word in my sentence?
Sentence:
I have the motivation(s) and ambition(s) to qualify as an accountant.
I believe your company can provide me with good career opportunity(ies) and can provide me with the opportunity(ies) to learn a wide range of skills.
Background:
I have asked some people. All of them suggest singular should be used.
However, they did not explain.
I have more than 1 motivation, eg, money, girls and success.
There will be more than 1 opportunity to learn, eg, one opportunity per week.
There will be more than 1 career opportunity, eg, opportunity to promote in each year end.
However, all people suggest singular word should be used.
Thanks
Top answer
When you say "Motivation, ambition, and opportunity are required," you're choosing to describe them as qualities (uncountable). What you say about the countable plurals is true, but to use them would be awkward under the circumstances. You don't really mean you have the specific individual motivations/ambitions/opportunities.
- When you say "Motivation, ambition, and opportunity are required," you're choosing to describe them as qualities (uncountable).
- What you say about the countable plurals is true, but to use them would be awkward under the circumstances.
- You don't really mean you have the specific individual motivations/ambitions/opportunities.
- You really mean you have the right kind of motivation, etc.
- Alternatively, you have the right amount of motivation, etc.
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1 Answers
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When you say "Motivation, ambition, and opportunity are required," you're choosing to describe them as qualities (uncountable).
What you say about the countable plurals is true, but to use them would be awkward under the circumstances. You don't really mean you have the specific individual motivations/ambitions/opportunities.
You really mean you have the right kind
What you say about the countable plurals is true, but to use them would be awkward under the circumstances. You don't really mean you have the specific individual motivations/ambitions/opportunities.
You really mean you have the right kind
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