The Debate Over Whether “Information” is Singular or Plural: Explained
As a writer, choosing between “information is” and “information are” can be a challenging task. There has been an ongoing debate over whether information is singular or plural. Some people argue that information is singular, while others assert that it’s plural.
In this article, we will explore the debate over whether “information” is singular or plural and provide some insights to help you make an informed decision.
Singular or Plural?
The question of whether “information” is singular or plural is linked to its use in sentences. The standard rule in English grammar dictates that singular nouns require singular verbs while plural nouns require plural verbs. However, “information” does not fit squarely into either category.
Typically, information does not have a plural form. For example, if someone says “I have some information for you,” they usually would not say, “I have some informations for you.” However, in some cases, “information” can be considered plural, especially when it is being used to refer to multiple pieces of information.
For instance, if someone says, “These are interesting informations,” it can imply that there is more than one piece of information being referred to.
Historical Context
The debate over whether “information” is singular or plural has a historical context. In the past, the word “information” was often used in the plural. It was not until the 17th century that “information” started being used in the singular form.
This shift can be attributed to the fact that the concept of “information” was changing. With the development of technology, information started becoming abstract. In the past, information primarily consisted of concrete, tangible things such as books, artifacts, or documents. However, with the emergence of electronic media, information started to become less tangible, and it was easier to conceptualize it as a singular entity.
Conclusion
The use of “information” as either singular or plural largely depends on the context of the sentence. In most cases, “information” is considered singular. However, when it is being used to refer to multiple pieces of information, it can be considered plural.
Ultimately, it’s up to the writer or speaker to decide whether to use “information is” or “information are” based on the intended meaning of the sentence. Both forms are widely accepted in modern English and are often used interchangeably.
When in doubt, the best practice is to consider the context of the sentence and determine whether the singular or plural form of information makes more sense. As with many things in English, the answer is not always straightforward but can be gleaned by understanding the context and meaning of the message being communicated.
