Groaning Plural? ??
In this phrase, groanings too deep for words, why is the word groaning pluralized?

When you make a verb a noun, for example, Swimming or running, you dont pluralize them do you?Here is the English Standard Version of the Bible verse Romans 8:27-
Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.

http://biblehub.com/romans/8-26.htm

Question

Groaning Plural? ??
In this phrase, groanings too deep for words, why is the word groaning pluralized?

When you make a verb a noun, for example, Swimming or running, you dont pluralize them do you?Here is the English Standard Version of the Bible verse Romans 8:27-
Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.

http://biblehub.com/romans/8-26.htm

Answer

It's either wrong, or needs context. You should add the surrounding sentence(s).

For example missing an apostrophe:
e.g. "His groaning's too deep for words"
a contraction of
"His groaning is too deep for words"

Answer

I think it's poor style or wrong.

Oxford doesn't classify "groaning" as a noun.  See http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/groaning

"groans" or "groaning" is acceptable in my opinion.

Answers · 2

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