Hello there, I'm an expert in the field of linguistics with a particular focus on the English language. I've spent countless hours studying grammar, syntax, and usage, and I'm here to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the use of "dollars" in English.
When it comes to the word "dollars," it is important to understand that its usage can be both singular and plural, depending on the context. Let's delve into the intricacies of this fascinating aspect of the English language.
Firstly, when we refer to a collective sum of money, we treat "dollars" as a singular entity. For instance, if you were to say, "I have 50 dollars in my account," the verb "have" is singular because you're referring to the total amount of money as one entity. This is a common rule in English where collective nouns, such as "money," "information," or "equipment," are treated as singular when we're talking about the whole.
However, when we're talking about the individual units of currency, "dollars" becomes plural. For example, "I found three dollars on the ground" uses a plural verb "found" because we're referring to each dollar as a separate entity. This distinction is important as it helps to clarify the meaning in a sentence.
It's also worth noting that the use of "dollars" can be influenced by regional variations in English. The statement you provided about "dollars" being used instead of "rubles" in Russia is an interesting observation. While it's true that English is a global language, it does adapt to local contexts. In this case, it's possible that in Russia, where the local currency is the ruble, the word "dollars" might be used in a slightly different way due to the influence of Russian language and culture on the English spoken there.
Now, let's address the second part of your statement regarding nouns like "scissors," "tweezers," "trousers," and "shears." These are known as plurale tantum nouns. They are always treated as plural, even when referring to a single item. For example, you would say, "The scissors are on the table," not "The scissors is on the table." This is a unique aspect of English grammar that requires these nouns to be paired with plural verbs.
In conclusion, the use of "dollars" as singular or plural in English is determined by the context in which it is used. When referring to a collective sum, it is singular, but when referring to individual units, it is plural. Understanding these nuances is crucial for clear and effective communication in English.
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