Linguistics

[Eladijaz]

Saluton,
I really would like to see the word "forums" changed to "fora". I believe that this is arguably more correct (I realise that more correct doesn't sound correct either, but that seemsto be the nature of language IMO). We don't talk about florums when we're pointing at a bunch of plants. Plants? They're those things you find outside. You know, outside, away from the computer, out that large door to where the big light is ... "what's that big blue thing?" I hear you ask, pointing to heavenward, you're innocent face bathed in light for the first time in so long. "That's called 'The Sky'", I reply, "... pretty isn't it ...". "No, that other big blue thing", the fear rising in your voice. I follow your finger to a point several blocks away ... "Oh my Lord! It's a giant, killer Smurf on the rampage!!!".
Moral: Don't ever, EVER, leave your house.
Elad.

[cunokyle]

actually, forums is the plural form of forum.

edit:so is flora, so either would be correct. Forums looks better though.

[Eladijaz]

Saluton,
From where does this information arise? My understanding is that words of the ancient era that have lasted until today use their original pluaralisations. Thus the latin forum becomes fora. Just as the latin ovum becomes ova etc...
Regards,
Elad.

[Angela]

The American Heritage Dictionary says both are correct. The OED gives an example of "forums" being used in 1647.

[cracked]

well, if either are correct, i like the look/sound of forums better. but then again, im from redneckvill so "deer" plural is "deers"

drew

[Angela]

I don't see any reason to change "forums" to "fora", except to have a lot of people asking, "What the heck is that?"

[Theophylact]

Words in different contexts sometimes have different plurals. "Antennae" is correct for moths, "antennas" for televisions. Although the genus of the plant is Crocus, the plural is "crocuses".

We just had a discussion (fomented by OuTpaTienT) on the correct plural of "mouse".

Personally, I speak of "Kleenices" and "bananae", but only if I want to irritate.

[Angela]

Bananae makes sense; but since "Kleenex" is a brand name, why not just "tissues"?

[Theophylact]

(That's why it's capitalized.)

[NeoStarO1]

Originally posted by Angela
I don't see any reason to change "forums" to "fora", except to have a lot of people asking, "What the heck is that?"

Exactly what i was thinking, and when read the thread starter's post im like what the heck?

No forums is nice, that is how i know it and many others. no changes.

Just add button for view zero replies and crying smilies.