I accept the new meanings of architecture such as that in computer science. Sticking with the much older meaning of eloquent design of large structures such as buildings, bridges and the like, can you justify the use of the plural, as in "I like the architectures of France"? To me it seems a simplification of "styles of architecture" and not very elegant. Opinions, anyone? (might as well say "Free beer, anyone?")
Architectures or styles of architecture?
- Thread starter Lance_in_Shanghai
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I agree, it sounds wrong. You could say "the architecture of France," or "French architecture." Architectures is, as you say, a specialized term. It's not otherwise a pluralizable noun. I could be wrong, now, but I don't think so. If it's not Lite I'll take the beer, though.
I know the British say, "cultural exchanges" and seem never to say "exchange" although Americans tend to consider "cultural exchange" to be a collective singular that never needs to become plural. Are there any British speakers reading this forum who want to say "architectures"?
No I don't.
I have seen "architectural styles" quite a bit in the media, and it sounds better IMO. Here's one at the BBC:
Architectural Styles Across Britain
It would be good to hear other opinions as well.
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