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plural

 
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learner12



Joined: 18 Nov 2006
Posts: 730

PostPosted: Wed Dec 30, 2009 11:25 pm    Post subject: plural Reply with quote

Hello, teachers!!

(From a certain grammar book)

Please correct the sentence below.

(*)Her alternative was to stand or run.
----->
The answer is "Her alternatives were to stand or run." Why do you have to make the word alternative plural(=alternatives)?

In my opinion, "Her alternative was to stand or run." is a correct sentence.

I am not sure.

Thank you in advance.
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CP



Joined: 12 Jun 2006
Posts: 2875
Location: California

PostPosted: Fri Jan 01, 2010 4:21 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

There are two alternatives, standing and running, so the plural is right. The singular would be all right here: She chose to run. The only other alternative was to stand there and be injured.
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learner12



Joined: 18 Nov 2006
Posts: 730

PostPosted: Fri Jan 01, 2010 10:45 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Dear CP:

Thank you so much for your time.

I wish you a happy new year and success.
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