Essay grammar question

[Philip]

Hi,

I'm writing an essay and came across this problem:

I'm talking about my "login credentials" (username and password) for a web site. No problems here.

Then I have: "Retrieval of login credentials". No problems yet.

Here comes the tough part:

I want to put "Retrieval of login credentials" in the direct form:

"Login credential retrieval" or "Login credentials retrieval"

Which one is correct?

I don't know if it is correct, but I prefer the first form as there are no "s" 'es.

Thank you

[MrPedantic]

Hello Philip

It's difficult to say without the exact context; but both seem possible:

1. Login credential retrieval

— here, your name and password are treated separately. Each constitutes a "login credential". The process therefore consists of two acts of retrieval.

2. Login credentials retrieval

— here, your name and password are treated together. Together, they constitute your "login credentials". The process therefore consists of one act of retrieval.

MrP