Re: [ARSCLIST] Clarification (was Re: A wiki-discopedia?)

[Jon Noring <jon@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Howard wrote:

> What I was saying was, the word "data" is a plural noun, and refers
> to a collection of inividual pieces of information, each known as a
> "datum."  It is incorrect to say "Data is" anything, the correct
> form and grammar being "data are" whatever.

The Wikipedia has a good summary, referencing other "data" <smile/>,
about the singular/plural controversy of "data":

   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Data

I have used "data" both singular and plural, and in the particular
context I used it ("discographical data"), singular was appropriate,
at least as I remember using it.

Now, for those who still believe "data" must be plural in all contexts
(other than "word used as a word" usage, e.g. "The word 'data' is
oftentimes misused."), it would have been written "discographical data
set", or something equivalent.

In every generation there are always different opinions regarding
proper grammar. What is today considered proper grammar was not
considered proper 100 years ago. English is a continually changing
language, for better and for worse.

Jon Noring