Social media users are split over a straightforward arithmetic issue that a lady in a popular video raised, sparking a heated online argument. In the video, which was posted on Instagram by @bowaledeen, a lady can be heard asking her spouse, “What is half of 4 + 4?”
The guy replies with confidence and without hesitation, “Four.” The lady, however, is certain that the right response is six, which sparks a humorous debate that draws the attention of onlookers.
Online users swiftly entered the conversation, with many supporting the woman’s position and others supporting the man’s logic. The question’s unclear wording seems to be the source of the misunderstanding, since it’s unclear if “half” refers to the complete phrase or simply the number four.
Experts in mathematics chimed in, pointing out that depending on how the question is understood, any of the two responses might be true. Some contend that the order of operations may be made clearer by utilizing brackets.
“The question is phrased to confuse,” said one user. The correct answer to the question, “What is half of 4 plus 4?” is six. But from the way she said it, it’s four.”
Another commenter said, “He’s right,” in support of the man’s statement. Grammar-wise, the right meaning is that the total of (4+4) is divided in half. The answer to the question “What is half of (4+4)?” would be four, indeed.”
