As an expert in linguistics, I can provide a comprehensive answer to your question about whether "scissors" is singular or plural. The term "scissors" is a fascinating example of a collective noun that is treated as singular in English grammar. Collective nouns are a category of nouns that refer to a group or collection of items, but they are used with a singular verb because they represent a single entity or unit.

The word "scissors" is derived from the Latin word "cisoria," which is the plural form of "cisorium," meaning a cutting instrument. In English, when we refer to the tool used for cutting, we use the word "scissors" without an "s" at the end, even though it implies a pair. This is because the tool functions as a single unit when it is used, despite being made up of two blades.

The confusion arises because "scissors" looks like a plural noun due to its etymology and the fact that it consists of two parts. However, in usage, it is treated as a singular noun. For instance, we say "The scissors is on the table," not "The scissors are on the table." The verb agrees with the singular noun "scissors."

It's important to note that there are exceptions to this rule. When referring to more than one set of scissors, we can use "scissors" in the plural form. For example, "The scissors are on the table" would be correct if there are multiple pairs of scissors present.

The reference you provided mentions that in other languages, such as German, the equivalent of "scissors" is a singular noun ("Schere"). This highlights the fact that languages have different ways of treating nouns that represent a pair or a collection. In English, "scissors" is treated as a singular noun when referring to a single pair, but it can be pluralized when referring to more than one pair.

In conclusion, "scissors" is primarily a singular noun in English, even though it describes an item that is made up of two parts. It is used with a singular verb when referring to a single pair of cutting tools. However, when referring to multiple pairs, "scissors" can be used in the plural form. This unique usage reflects the complexity and nuances of English grammar and the way collective nouns function within it.

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A few words, though singular in nature, are made of paired items and generally treated as plural: scissors, pants, trousers, glasses, pliers, tongs, tweezers, and the like. Many are often used with the word pair as in pair of pants or pair of scissors. Example: These scissors are too dull to cut with.read more >>