0

What would be the correct form of this phrase?

Atom forge

or

Atomic forge

I know 'atomic' is an objective and 'atom' being a noun is correct when used with forge because you are forging something. But 'atomic' sounds right and I've seen that used before. Just want some clarification.

KillingTime
  • 6,206
Tom
  • 1
  • 2
    You haven't said what is being forged. Which is "correct" rather depends on that. – Andrew Leach Jul 14 '23 at 08:22
  • "Objective" (end result) or "adjective" (description)? – ItWasLikeThatWhenIGotHere Jul 14 '23 at 10:02
  • 1
    Both seem to be used for hypothetical techologies, but until atom(ic) forges become a widely-discussed practical technology we can't really say what term is more common. Use either, or take your lead from some particular scientist or technologist. This seems more of a question for another forum, whether you're interested in sci-fi and worldbuilding, or experimental physics. – Stuart F Jul 14 '23 at 11:23
  • Are you forging atoms themselves, or are you forging something using atomic power? – Peter Shor Jul 14 '23 at 11:25
  • 'Correct' is probably not the correct term to use here, as neither 'atom forge' nor 'atomic forge' is disallowed on basic English grounds. On idiomaticity grounds, the situation is unclear because of low sample sizes and a lot of muddying by proper noun usages. adjective vs noun-as-an-adjective explains the overall situation. – Edwin Ashworth Jul 14 '23 at 11:59
  • 2
    Does this answer your question? Adjective vs Noun as an adjective // 'Correct' is probably not the correct term to use here, as neither 'atom forge' nor 'atomic forge' is disallowed on basic English grounds. On idiomaticity grounds, the situation is unclear because of low sample sizes and a lot of muddying by proper noun usages. The linked thread explains the overall situation. – Edwin Ashworth Jul 14 '23 at 11:59

0 Answers0