In this sentence:
We adopt a scenario where we have four machines.
Is the sentence above correct ? or we should replace a by the ?
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2If prior context (what was being talked about immediately before the cited sentence) already mentioned the four-machine scenario (and one or more alternative scenarios) then the is far more likely (almost, required). In all other contexts a is more likely (but the would probably always be at least "acceptable").– FumbleFingersCommented Sep 14, 2016 at 12:58
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1Also, the simple present adopt might not be the correct choice. It too would depend on the context of the sentence. For example, if you are referring to a decision that has been made, it would be "we will adopt". If you are referring to an implementation that has taken place, "we have adopted" or if it took place a long time ago, "we adopted".– TimRCommented Sep 14, 2016 at 13:44
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1You could also say "are adopting". We would need more context.– TimRCommented Sep 14, 2016 at 14:07
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I think both "a" and "the" are possible and it wouldn't be incorrect to use either!– SovereignSunCommented Dec 14, 2016 at 14:39
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1 Answer
Is there more than one scenario under consideration involving more than four machines? If there is only one, it should be "the", or if there are multiple possible scenarios with four machines and it doesn't matter which it would be "a".
