Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing
How to write about zero. Are your emails accidentally rude? PAPST.
Jul 16, 2024
Learn about the quirks of the number zero, its plurals, idioms from WWII era, and how it impacts email communication. Discover how generational differences affect politeness in emails and ways to avoid misunderstandings. Explore the unique language styles of different generations and the importance of using polite language in intergenerational interactions.
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Quick takeaways
- Pronunciation of 'zero' varies based on context, with 'O' acceptable for numbers but 'zero' for math/science contexts.
- Email communication blends speech and writing norms, requiring adaptability based on recipient familiarity for effective communication.
Deep dives
Understanding Zero as a Number and its Grammatical Treatment
Zero, though seemingly representing nothing, has a significant history in mathematics. Originating in ancient India, it has variations in plural spelling. While Garner's modern English usage prefers 'zeros', the Oxford English Dictionary includes 'zeroes'. Pronunciation of 'zero' varies based on context, with 'O' acceptable for numbers but 'zero' for math/science contexts.
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