"Number" or "numbers"?

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Is there a difference between using "number" and "numbers" when referring to multiple numbers?

For example, when calling a merchant to inquire about multiple orders, should I say:

I need RMAs for order numbers 1 and 2.

or

I need RMAs for order number 1 and 2.

This question might sound stupid, but I'm not sure what the main subject is. Is "number" the subject and therefore should I use "numbers"? Or are the order numbers (1 and 2) the subject, so should I keep "number" singular?

jess

Posted 2013-06-12T03:30:03.533

Reputation: 995

5Personally, I'd say *"for orders number 1 and 2"*. – FumbleFingers Reinstate Monica – 2013-06-12T03:50:28.467

Answers

2

I usually hear that as "Order numbers 1 and 2", with the "s". Fumble's comment gives a good way to get around it anyway.

TecBrat

Posted 2013-06-12T03:30:03.533

Reputation: 512

Hi TecBrat, can you elaborate on your answer please? When possible, answers with more information are usually better :) – WendiKidd – 2013-06-12T22:16:34.907

Asked: 2013-06-12T03:30:03.533

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Active: 2014-01-29T11:50:06.437