Which sentence correctly reflects the rule that some nouns ending in $-ics$ are singular when they name a field of study but plural when they refer to data or practical details?
AStatistics are taught at B-schools, but no statistics is available on this issue.
BStatistics is taught at B-schools, but no statistics are available on this issue.
CEconomics are an interesting subject, but the economics of the project is wrong.
DEthics are being taught in the spring, but his business ethics is questionable.
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: B. Statistics is taught at B-schools, but no statistics are available on this issue.
When "statistics" means the academic subject, it takes a singular verb: "Statistics is taught..." When it means numerical data, it usually takes a plural verb: "No statistics are available..." The same distinction applies to words like economics and ethics in certain contexts.
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