Calling all grammar pedants.

[baratron]

Is there someone I could write to for an official clarification of a point of grammar?

I tell you why: a society I belong to insists that the plural of "woman member" is "women members", and I am sure it should be "woman members". I would like to find either a book or an authority on grammar who could resolve this issue, as it's really starting to get on my nerves! Any ideas?

Comments

[mactavish.livejournal.com]

I prefer "female member" and "female members." "Woman" is a noun, not an adjective.

Do we say "the man members"? Well . . I mean in that context.

[lovingboth]

I'm with Mary on this one.

Or 'members who are women' :)

[rivka.livejournal.com]

Yes, I agree. Using "woman" as an adjective is just as bad as using "female" as a noun. Plus, it reminds me of the way my father used to call some of his colleagues "lady doctors" until I broke him of the habit.