Why Grammar Experts Say ‘Information’ is Plural

Grammar experts have long been debating the concept of “information” and whether it should be treated as singular or plural. Typically, when referring to “information” we use it in a singular manner, such as “this information is useful.” However, many argue that “information” is actually plural and should be treated as such, with phrases like “this information are helpful” being grammatically correct.

So why is this such a contentious issue among grammar enthusiasts? The answer lies in the origins of the word “information” and how it has evolved over time. Originally, “information” was derived from the Latin verb “informare,” which meant “to give form to.” In this sense, “information” was seen as a collection of individual pieces of data that, when combined, provided a complete picture.

Over time, however, the meaning of “information” has shifted and now typically refers to a single piece of knowledge or data. This change in meaning has led many to argue that “information” should now be treated as a singular noun, rather than plural.

Despite this argument, there are several reasons why grammar experts continue to insist that “information” is plural. One of the main arguments is that “information” is often used in the same way as “knowledge,” another plural noun. Just as we say “this knowledge is helpful,” we can also say “this information is helpful.” In this sense, treating “information” as plural simply follows established grammatical patterns.

Another argument is that the word “information” encompasses a wide range of data, from individual facts to entire sets of data. In this sense, “information” can be seen as a collection of smaller pieces, each of which may be considered individual units. This further supports the idea that “information” is plural, as it is made up of multiple parts.

So, what does all this mean for writers and speakers who want to use “information” correctly in their communication? In reality, there is no clear-cut answer. While some experts insist on treating “information” as plural, others argue that using it in the singular form is perfectly acceptable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the context in which the word is being used.

Regardless of one’s opinion on the matter, the debate surrounding “information” serves as a reminder of the rich and complex history of language and how it continues to evolve over time. As we continue to communicate in the digital age, it will be interesting to see how our understanding of words and grammar continues to develop and change.