opouts is being cut numerically. The first interpretation is supported both by syntax and frequency. First, we most often think of cutting in the physical sense. When we refer to numbers it is often in terms such as reduced, or decreased, much less often do we use the term cut. Therefore, this leads us to accept the first interpretation. Second, syntax also leans towards the first interpretation. From the included information we are only able to assume that the dropouts themselves are the subjects, the object of the cutting. Since the word "rate" or the phrase "number of" is not a part of the statement we are inclined to accept the interpretation involving physical cutting.On the other hand, both context and plausibility support the interpretation that the number or rate of dropouts is being cut. Due to the context, namely that any theoretical cutting refers to people, we are led to adopt the second interpretation. This is closely related to our final consideration, plausibility. It is only realistic that the cutting refers to the numbers and not to the dropouts themselves. Therefore, we conclude to accept the numerical interpretation.“Iraqi Head Seeks Arms” This example is ambiguous because it is unclear whether “head” and “arms” refer to the anatomical units, or whether they refer to the head of state and arms meaning weapons. The first interpretation is supported by frequency. The terms “head” and “arms’ are usually used in conjunction with the body. Therefore, it is understandable that one may at first draw this conclusion.However, context and plausibility allow us to choose the correct interpretation, the one pertaining to national leadership and weapons. The context of the phrase, specifically the modifier “Iraqi”, leads towards this reading. The modifier provides a clue to the real meaning of “head” by prompting us to consider the administrat...
