Learn English – ‘order number 1 and 2’, ‘orders number 1 and 2’, or ‘order numbers 1 and 2’

grammarnounsplural-formssingular

From this question by jess:

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?

FumbleFingers answered :

Personally, I'd say "for orders number 1 and 2".

while TecBrat answered :

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.

Which one is correct? Which one is wrong and why?

Best Answer

In the first example, "number X" is modifying the subject "order" as part of a series. The "1" and "2" represent the place in the series:

I need RMAs for orders number 1 and number 2 (out of 5).

I need RMAs for orders 1 and 2.

I need RMAs for orders number 1 (ID# 56789) and number 2 (ID#56790).

Making "numbers" plural instead indicates that "order numbers" is the complete, more descriptive subject, similar to "tracking numbers" or "inventory numbers." That ties it directly to that item, no matter how many orders there are or in what sequence. This makes more sense if for example you provide a complete tracking number:

I need RMAs for order numbers 1234-XYZ-0987 and 1234-ABC-7890.

Of course this could also be shortened to just use "orders," which in that case is the complete subject & needs to be plural.

I need RMAs for orders 1234-XYZ-0987 and 1234-ABC-7890.

Related Topic