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I can appreciate why the reviewer would feel that it sounds wrong without the "an"; I agree with them.
I don't think it implies that there are multiple un-initialized states... I think you're overthinking that one.
As a compromise, you could use "... deliver the product in its un-initialized state."
p.s. I've also gotta say that the usage of "wish" is a pet peeve with me. It sounds too old-fashioned and emotive. Microsoft Manual of Tech Writing also specifies using "want" instead. Anybody else with me on this?
-----Original Message-----
From: techwr-l-bounces+lynne -dot- wright=tiburoninc -dot- com -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com [mailto:techwr-l-bounces+lynne -dot- wright=tiburoninc -dot- com -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com] On Behalf Of McLauchlan, Kevin
Sent: Wednesday, October 10, 2012 11:32 AM
To: techwr-l -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com
Subject: Usage question - "... un-initialized state" or "... an uninitialized state"
The statement in the docs is: "You might wish to deliver the product in un-initialized state."
One reviewer wants that to say: "You might wish to deliver the product in AN un-initialized state."
My objection to that version is that it suggests/implies that there is more than one un-initialized state.
With respect to initialization, there are two states - initialized and un-initialized. There are no sub-categories under un-initialized, and no grey areas. It is or it ain't.
What say you language mavens?
-k
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