RE: Grammar of verbs for nouns with "(s)"

["Lauren" <lauren -at- writeco -dot- net>]

When I wrote applications with singular or plural results, I would write in
a function to deliver singular or plural comments, depending on the results.
When I do not have access to the application controls, I try to write
universal statements in my documentation.  

In the case of your example, if the optional pluralization of "meeting(s)"
cannot be avoided, then I would write "has (have)," although that is very
awkward.

I would prefer to consider less awkward options and find one that is
consistent with style of other content.

"Success! You have deleted your meeting(s)."

"Success! You have deleted your meeting or meetings."

"Your deletion was a success!"

"Successful deletion!"

"Success! Meeting or meetings are deleted."

Lauren
 

> From: Tom Johnson

> In my user interface, I have a confirmation message that 
> says, "Success!
> Your meeting(s) have been deleted." The "(s)" makes the 
> subject singular or
> plural. This leaves me wondering whether "have" is 
> grammatically correct.
> I'm not even sure what the (s) is called. Any help here? Thanks,
> 
> Tom

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