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Re: Archive v. archives: a pedant replies



>I'm not sure there's ever any "correct" answer when it comes to usage, but
there are preferences.

It is a mistake to say that there are only preferences. Usage refers to the
way language is actually used among a group or community etc. The community
decides that something is correct and then it is.

Usage the just about the only -age word that I accept on a first reading.
Lots of words that end in -age could do very well without it. One of my
smart-alec sons (how DID they get that way?) used to underscore this view
by deliberately inventing words like heighthage and girthage when talking
about football players.

>I would be curious if members of this list feel strongly as to whether one
>form or the other is good or bad.  And why.

One thing that hasn't been covered so far is the use of archives with the
signular indefinite article --an archives.
======================================

Ethel C. Simpson
Head, Archives and Manuscripts
Special Collections
University of Arkansas Libraries
Fayetteville, AR 72701
======================================
visit the Special Collections web site
http://www.uark.edu/libinfo/speccoll

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