Joseph B. Reid wrote: >Terry Simpson wrote in USMA 23655: >>Pat Naughtin wrote: >>>I'm beginning to see the word 'metrics' from time to time. >> >>The word 'metric' and the plural are used in America quite a >>lot for this purpose. The British tend to use the word >>'measure' in similar circumstances. > >The Shorter Oxford English Dictionary says: >Metre: sb, singular & plural 1760. The science or art that >deals with metre. > >Metre: sb. 1. Any form of poetic rhythm 2. Metrical >arrangement or method. 3. Composition in metre, verse. >4. A metrical group or measure; specifically a dipody in iambic, >trochaic, and anapaestic rhythms 1880. > >Metre: verb 1.To compose or put into metre 1447. >2. intransitive: To versify. late Middle English.
Yes. Those definitions fit with my understanding. However, 'metric' is frequently used as a noun synonymously with 'measure'. Search the web or usenet for the plural form 'metrics' and you will find this usage dominates the results: http://www.useit.com/alertbox/20010121.html The singular form does not dominate but has substantial prevalence. It adds noise to searches relating to the metric system. I merely attributed extensive usage in this form it to American regional variation of English. I would say 'what are your performance measures?' whereas I have heard Americans say 'what are your performance metrics?'. I would not rule out the usage by myself or others in the UK but it is just less common. I did have a colleague in the UK who had the job title 'Software metrics'. -- Terry Simpson Human Factors Consultant [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.connected-systems.com Phone: +44 7850 511794
