Understanding the Distinction Between 'Result' and 'Results'

When writing or speaking, the choice between using result and results can significantly impact the clarity and effectiveness of your message. This article explores the subtle differences in meaning between these terms and provides practical examples to help you make the right choice. Whether you are discussing a single event or multiple findings, understanding the distinction is essential for clear communication.

What is the Difference Between Singular and Plural?

The main difference between result (singular) and results (plural) lies in the number of outcomes or findings being referred to. Simply put:

Result: This refers to a single outcome or consequence of an action, event, or process. It emphasizes one specific finding or conclusion. Results: This refers to multiple outcomes or findings. It indicates a collection of data or conclusions drawn from an analysis or investigation.

Singular Example: The result of the match was a victory for the home team.

Plural Example: The test results showed that several students performed exceptionally well.

When to Use Singular or Plural

Your choice between result or results depends on whether you are describing a single outcome or multiple outcomes. Here are some specific scenarios:

Tests and Exams

When performing tests or exams, the choice is straightforward:

Result: A single, specific grade mark or percentage, such as the result of a single exam in one subject. Results: Multiple individual grades or performance metrics, such as results from multiple exams in various subjects.

For example, if you take a test in a single subject, the result might be a single grade, while if you take several tests, the results will include grades from each test.

Medical Tests

Medical tests provide another context where the distinction is important:

Single Result: A single blood test, such as the result for serum PSA or Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA). Multiple Results: A comprehensive set of medical test results, such as a Full Blood Count (FBC), Urea, Electrolytes, Liver Function Tests, and Thyroid Function Tests.

A blood test might yield just one result, whereas a comprehensive check-up could yield several test results.

Biopsy Reports

While it might seem odd, even in medical contexts, the term result can be used to describe a detailed report rather than a single measurement:

The result of a biopsy refers to the comprehensive report generated by a pathologist after analyzing the tissue sample. This report includes detailed observations, interpretations, and conclusions based on the analysis. Even though the process is complex, it is often described as a single result rather than multiple results.

Example: The result of the biopsy showed that the tissue sample was benign, but further tests are needed to determine the exact diagnosis.

Challenges and Misunderstandings

While the meaning is clear when using result or results, there can be misunderstandings in practical contexts:

Example: If a student receives a test result that shows poor performance, they might compare it to their previous results to see if it is consistent or inconsistent. In this case, results is usually the correct choice since it refers to the multiple test scores.

However, if a teacher comments on an individual test and says, "This result is not consistent with those other test results you have," they are referring to a single score. Here, result is the correct word to use.

Conclusion

Choosing the right word between result and results is essential for clear communication. A result refers to a single outcome, while results refer to multiple outcomes. Understanding this distinction can help you convey your intended meaning more effectively, whether you are discussing tests, medical procedures, or any other form of evaluation.

By being mindful of singular and plural forms, you can ensure that your writing or speech is both precise and meaningful.