Variable(s)

[nyggus]

Hi, All:
Should I use an indefinite article when I use a construction like "variable(s)"? Simple example:

1. "If one considers measured variable(s)..." or
2. "If one considers measured a variable(s)..."

I would vote on the 1st version.
Best,
Nyggus

[Casiopea]

You'd be right.

In English, a determiner comes before the noun it modifies, even when the noun is modified by an adjective:

one <subject>
considers <verb>
a/the <determiner>
measured <adjective>
variable <singular noun>

one <subject>
considers <verb>
the <determiner>
measured <adjective>
variables <plural noun>
in this study <prepositional phrase; defining - explains "the">

one <subject>
considers <verb>
measured <adjective>
variables <plural noun>

[nyggus]

Casiopea, I am so sorry! I have figured out that I made a mistake in the second sentence . It should be

1. "If one considers measured variable(s)..." or
2. "If one considers a measured variable(s)..."

The problem is, should I put an article for the construction with (s).

Again - sorry for that!
Nyggus

[Casiopea]

measured variables
a measured variable

[nyggus]

measured variables
a measured variable

But:
a measured variable(s)
or just
measured variable(s)??

Thanks,
Nyggus

[Casiopea]

Should I use an indefinite article when I use a construction like "variable(s)"? Simple example:

1. "If one considers measured variable(s)..." or
2. "If one considers measured a variable(s)..."

Firstly, a is in the wrong position. It should be, a measured, not 'measured a'. Secondly, both 1. and 2. are awkward structures. Try,

3. If one considers a measured variable or variables ...