![]() ![]() I suspect that programmers want to be more precise than is necessary when they use this form in graphical interfaces. In ordinary writing, in graphical interfaces, and in technical documentation, I don't think it's necessary at all. Use of (s) might be necessary in legal documents, which have to be very precise and cover all the possible meanings. I would argue that it isn't simple enough, and using the plural is more effective. As points out, the Chicago Manual of Style recommends against using it unless it is simple and effective. ![]() I find "one or more object(s)" to be much harder to read, as I have to parse the phrase with both possibilities. As Dave points out, the plural doesn't preclude zero or one of the objects. We read this quite naturally and have no problem with the lack of agreement in number implied by "one objects". For example, we say "one or more objects" to mean "one object or several objects". The plural form covers the singular meaning because it's used as a class. Selecting one or more appropriate study topics.In such instances, it is best to reword the sentence to something along the lines of, However, in other cases such as the OP's, it can be ambiguous and confusing as there's no consistent way to maintain singularity or plurality thanks to the presence of the determiner, an. The identification number(s) of the prisoner(s) must be logged upon his (their) arrival.The identification number(s) of the prisoner(s) must be logged upon arrival. ![]() In other words, the use of this shorthand might be useful in examples such as, Place an “about the author(s)” statement on the copyright page (usually page iv). ![]() In general, avoid such shorthand unless it can be used simply and effectively, as in the following example: If you must use such a device (and it can be a useful shorthand), you have to be prepared to adjust the surrounding context as necessary: for example, “the award(s) is (are) accounted for.” A parenthetical plural verb must correspond to the parenthetical ending. According to The Chicago manual of style Q&A,Ī term ending in “(s)” is both plural and singular. ![]()
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