![]() However, the problem with the definition of plural as “more than one” arises when the phrases 0 degrees and -10 degrees. The numerals 2 and 70 and determiners a few and many are plural, indicating more than one degree, which require the use of the marked degrees. The noun degree is also unmarked, which in English also denotes a singular. The numeral 1 and indefinite article a are singular, denoting the noun degree as singular. Take, for example, the following noun phrases: But the definition “more than one” is incomplete. ![]() Wikipedia provides the following definition of plural: “Most commonly, therefore, plurals are used to denote two or more of something, although they may also denote more than fractional, zero or negative amounts.” In English, plural forms most often refer to more than one, usually more than one noun. Old English had dual forms in the first and second persons (wit “we two,” ġit “you two”). Some languages have other number categories such as dual (two), trial (three), and paucel (a few). Number in English specifically refers to the distinction between singular and plural. Grammatical number refers to a grammatical category of nouns, pronouns, adjectives, determiners, and verbs that expresses count distinctions. Plural means “not one.” If you have zero or less than zero of something, you use the plural form: ‘I have no sisters’ or ‘It is -10 degrees out.’ #grammar.” While I received some applause, I also received some disheartening comments that claimed that defining singular as “one” and plural as “not one” adds a layer of complexity beyond the abilities of children of a certain age. ![]() ![]() I included the following caption: “I always have to fix my kids’ grammar books. I recently shared a photo across my social media accounts of the grammar textbook that I currently use with my oldest. ![]()
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