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Word Usage

Word Usage

Word Usage

(OP)
In the following current-event phrase, is the word "shuttering" a UK term?

A multi-year restructuring program was launched in 2002, which included 35,000 job cuts, the shuttering about seven North American plants and the elimination of unprofitable vehicle models.

It's almost like they are trying to say scuttling, but probably mean closing.  The usage just hurts my eyes and brain.

"I think there is a world market for maybe five computers."
Thomas Watson, chairman of IBM, 1943.
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RE: Word Usage

tr.v., -tered, -terĀ·ing, -ters.
1 To furnish or close with shutters: locked the doors and shuttered the windows.
2 To cause to cease operations; close down: shuttered the store for the holiday.

RE: Word Usage

Not to the best of my knowledge.

The only shuttering I know of is wooden cladding used to pour concrete into.

RE: Word Usage

I have heard it used in that manner in the US, but it may have been borrowed from our english friends.

RE: Word Usage

It isn't a common UK term used in that sense, and would cause "shuddering" here if anyone tried to introduce it.

A.

RE: Word Usage

It would be less uncomfortable to my ears if it was the "shuttering OF seven plants". Then it would fit with stevenal's description easier.

RE: Word Usage

I have never heard it used in that context before.

I agree with kchayfie, or as an alternative, omitting the preceding 'the' as in

"A multi-year restructuring program was launched in 2002, which included 35,000 job cuts, shuttering about seven North American plants and the elimination of unprofitable vehicle models."

Also, "shutting (or closing) about seven ..." would have sufficed.


Helpful SW websites every user should be aware of FAQ559-520
How to get answers to your SW questions  FAQ559-1091

RE: Word Usage

Although the example I quoted doesn't really express it, shuttering sounds like it's more complete and for a longer duration. Sort of like putting up the shutters when closing a cabin at the end of the season. Shut it every time you go to the store, but shutter it once a year. Does sound like there was a typo in MadMango's example.

RE: Word Usage

'...the shuttering about seven North American plants...'!  Ouch!

It would seem that whover wrote or said that has a poor grasp of English.  Surely it should be '...the shutting of about seven North American plants...'.

RE: Word Usage

Would it be the same as "mothballing"?

M

--
Dr Michael F Platten

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