Clarifying Usage and Correctness of 'Others' in English

When writing and speaking in English, the word 'others' can be used to refer to multiple people or things that do not belong to a specific individual. While using 'others' in written form is grammatically correct, there are nuances to consider when speaking, as this article will outline.

Grammatical Correctness and Pronunciation

Grammatically speaking, using 'others' in the plural form can be considered correct, but it may present challenges when spoken. The word is often confused with the pronunciation of 'otherses,' which can lead to misunderstandings. Therefore, it is recommended to use a more explicit and clearer phrase to convey the intended meaning.

A more straightforward way to express the idea of 'others' is to rephrase the sentence. For example, you can say, 'This thing belongs to someone else,' and then state what you want to do with them in a different sentence. Another alternative is to say, 'These things which belong to some other persons...' or the more general, 'things that belong to others.' These phrases offer a clearer and more natural way to convey the message, reducing the potential for confusion.

An even simpler way to express the idea is 'other people’s things,' which is concise and easily understandable in both written and spoken English.

Expressing Possession of Others' Things

When referring to objects that belong to others, especially in the plural form, it is important to use proper grammar. For instance, if you wish to mention 'the things that belong to others,' you should use the correct punctuation, such as commas, to ensure clarity. This is particularly important in written English, where the meaning can be easily misunderstood without proper punctuation and phrasing.

For example, instead of saying 'the things that belong to others,' it is more grammatically correct to say 'the things that belong to other people.' This variation not only clarifies the meaning but also aligns with standard English grammar rules. It is important to note that when such phrases are used in legal or formal documents, precise language and punctuation are crucial to avoid any ambiguity.

While 'others' can be directly used in the plural form, it is advisable to use more explicit language to ensure your message is clear and easily understood. This is especially true in contexts where precision and clarity are essential, such as in legal or technical contexts.

Conclusion

Understanding the correct usage of 'others' and its plural form is important for effective communication in English. While it is grammatically correct to use 'others' in the plural, it is crucial to ensure that the meaning is clear, especially when spoken. By employing more explicit phrases and proper punctuation, you can enhance the clarity and effectiveness of your communication.

Remember, in situations where precision is key, using phrases such as 'things that belong to others' or 'other people’s things' can help prevent misunderstandings. Proper grammar and punctuation are not only important for clarity but also for professional and academic contexts.

Keywords

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