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Singular vs. plural when the subject has multiple objects in it

English Language & Usage Asked on May 9, 2021

This is a question about deciding singular vs. plural verb where the subject contains multiple objects in it. Let me set the context first.

I have a mathematical problem where I need to find a solution to a problem. A single solution is a collection of three functions I need to find. For examples, the functions f(x) = 1, g(x) = 2x + 1 and h(x) = 3x + 2 may form a single solution. Similarly, the functions f(x) = x + 1, g(x) = 2x and h(x) = 0 may form yet another solution.

Now after solving the problem I find that there is only solution to the problem. Which of the following ways is the right way to express this thought?

  1. The functions f(x) = 1, g(x) = 2x and h(x) = x + 2 is the only solution to the given problem.
  2. The functions f(x) = 1, g(x) = 2x, h(x) = x + 2 is the only solution to the given problem.
  3. The functions f(x) = 1, g(x) = 2x and h(x) = x + 2 are the only solutions to the given problem.

Option 3 sounds grammatically correct to me but sounds mathematically incorrect to me because the functions f(x), g(x) and h(x) are not three different solutions I have found to the problem. Those 3 functions together constitute a single solution to the given problem.

So is option 1 or option 2 correct? If none of the options are correct, what is a correct way to express this thought?

One Answer

Answer 1 or 2 will do but the following should be added. The multiple functions you list make up a Set of functions. You have found that only one set of functions make a solution.

"The set of functions f(x) = 1, g(x) = 2x and h(x) = x + 2 is the only solution to the given problem."

It is common to use and in place of the last comma separating an enumerated list. You may even use both as in "g(x) = 2x, and h(x) = x + 2" according to Warner's English Grammar.

Answered by Elliot on May 9, 2021

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