Quote:
Originally Posted by blavann
choose
1.to select from a number of possibilities; pick by preference: She chose Sunday for her departure.
2.to prefer or decide (to do something): He chose to run for election.
3.to want; desire.
4.(esp. in children's games) to contend with (an opponent) to decide, as by odd or even, who will do something: I'll choose you to see who gets to bat first. –verb (used without object)
5.to make a choice: He chose carefully.
6.to be inclined: You may stay here, if you choose.
7.(esp. in children's games) to decide, as by means of odd or even, who will do something: Let's choose to see who bats first.
choice
1.an act or instance of choosing; selection: Her choice of a computer was made after months of research. His parents were not happy with his choice of friends.
2.the right, power, or opportunity to choose; option: The child had no choice about going to school.
3.the person or thing chosen or eligible to be chosen: This book is my choice. He is one of many choices for the award.
You are all right, you have to choose between 2 choices which choice will you choose?  |
Thanks for that. I think this is where its going wrong - You have to choose between two options, not choices.
So, as I see it - A choice is a singular act. The existence of multiple options does not make the choice plural- ie you dont have to make 2 choices, it just makes the elements of the choice plural. You are only performing one act (ie The Choice)
e.g
Example 1
"Would you like Roast Potatoes, Chips or Mash with your steak Sir?" = A Choice ie - You have a choice of accompaniments with your steak
"Very well Sir, Would you like Wine with your meal?" = A Choice - ie you have a choice of having wine or not.
Summary
During the process of ordering your meal you have made 2 choices, 1 for Mash and 1 for Wine. The amount of choices made can be calculated by simply adding the amount of distinct options chosen. In this case 1 + 1 = 2. In Pete's case 1 + 0 = 1.
Conclusion
I think the confusion stems from an inaccurate phrase widely used that goes something like this - "We offer a wide range of choices" - although even that doesnt sound right now? Nurse, I think its time for my medication
BTW - I am a computer programmer so it is my job to confuse people