When writing or editing academic papers, legal documents, or even a novel, certain details matter—particularly when it comes to punctuation, formatting, and word choice. One commonly debated word that confuses many writers is “appendix.” Specifically, there’s confusion surrounding its plural form. Should you use “appendices” or “appendixes”? And when should you use each?
In this article, we will answer these questions thoroughly. Whether you’re working on a medical report, an academic dissertation, or a novel with added resources, understanding the correct usage of the plural form of appendix can enhance the clarity of your writing. Let’s dive into this topic by breaking down the definitions, history, rules, and examples surrounding appendices vs. appendixes.
What Does “Appendix” Mean?
Before we discuss the plural forms, let’s clarify the meaning of appendix. The word appendix has two main uses, and your choice of plural form depends on the context.
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Appendix in Anatomy
In medical terms, an appendix refers to a small, tube-like organ attached to the large intestine. Although this organ is often considered vestigial—meaning it no longer has a clear function in the human body—its presence has intrigued scientists and medical professionals for centuries. When discussing the appendix in the human body, the correct plural is appendixes.
Example:
“The patient’s appendixes were examined under a microscope after removal during surgery.”
Appendix in Books and Documents
In literature, appendix refers to supplementary material added at the end of a book, article, or document. This material can include additional details like tables, graphs, charts, or even references that support the main text. When referring to additional sections in a book or document, the preferred plural form is appendices.
Example:
“Please refer to Appendices A and B for additional data on the project’s findings.”
The Plural Problem: Appendices or Appendixes?
So, which plural form is correct—appendices or appendixes? The short answer is: both are correct. The choice depends on your context and the conventions you’re following.
Appendices: The Traditional Plural
Appendices follows a traditional Latin pluralization rule. The word appendix comes from the Latin verb appendere, which means “to hang upon” or “to attach.” The plural form in Latin for words like appendix is appendices, and this form has been carried into modern English, especially in academic, technical, and formal writing.
Appendixes: The Anglicized Plural
On the other hand, appendixes is a more Anglicized form, meaning it is more commonly used in less formal contexts or in modern English usage. The rise of appendixes may be due to the natural evolution of language over time, where English has tended to simplify certain Latin plural forms (e.g., cactus becoming cacti vs. cactuses). This form is also seen more frequently in casual writing and certain medical contexts.
When to Use “Appendices”
If you are writing a formal research paper, thesis, or book, you’ll likely use appendices. Here are a few guidelines on when to use appendices:
- Academic and Technical Writing: Research papers, dissertations, and technical reports often include appendices to present supplementary information that supports the main argument or findings.
- Legal and Business Documents: These documents often include detailed appendices that expand on the information discussed in the main body. For example, an annual report might include appendices with financial data, charts, and additional analysis.
- Books: Most formal or scholarly books will include appendices as a way to provide readers with extra materials that are important but not essential to the core content.
Example:
“In the appendices of this report, you’ll find detailed analysis of the financial models used to forecast future growth.”
When to Use “Appendixes”
Though appendices is more commonly used in formal contexts, appendixes has its place in more casual writing. Here’s when to consider using appendixes:
- Medical and Anatomical Writing: When referring to the organ, the correct plural is appendixes. Medical textbooks and articles often use this form.
- General or Casual Writing: In less formal writing, you may see appendixes used instead of appendices, particularly when the tone is more conversational or in informal documents.
Example:
“The appendixes were studied to determine if they played a role in the body’s immune response.”
The Historical Origins of the Word “Appendix”
To understand why we have two plural forms, we need to dive into the origins of the word. The term appendix comes from the Latin verb appendere, meaning “to hang upon.” In Latin, most nouns that end in -ix, such as appendix, typically form their plurals by changing the -ix to -ices. This is why appendices is considered the classical plural.
However, English, being a language that borrows heavily from Latin and other languages, has often anglicized certain words. This is why appendixes has gained acceptance in everyday usage, particularly in American English.
Style Guides and Writing Conventions
Different style guides have different rules for appendices and appendixes. Here’s a quick overview:
| Style Guide | Preferred Plural | Usage Context |
|---|---|---|
| APA Style | Appendices | Academic papers, research, and textbooks |
| MLA Style | Appendices / Appendixes | Literature, arts, and humanities |
| Chicago Manual | Appendices | Formal, academic, and professional writing |
| AMA Style (Medical) | Appendixes | Medical and scientific writing |
Key Takeaway:
- Appendices is generally preferred in formal academic and professional writing, particularly when referring to additional sections of documents.
- Appendixes may be used more casually, especially in medical contexts when referring to the organ.
How to Choose Between “Appendices” and “Appendixes”
The most important factor when deciding which form to use is context. Here’s a quick checklist to help you decide:
- Is your writing formal?
If yes, go with appendices. Academic papers, legal documents, and books will generally follow this convention. - Is your writing medical or anatomical?
In this case, use appendixes when referring to the organ. - Are you following a specific style guide?
If your organization or publisher has a style guide (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.), follow it to maintain consistency.
Common Mistakes with “Appendix” and Its Plural Forms
Even experienced writers can slip up when it comes to appendices and appendixes. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Using “appendices” for body parts: In medical writing, the plural of appendix as an organ is appendixes, not appendices.
- Inconsistent usage: Don’t switch between appendices and appendixes in the same document. Stick to one form for consistency.
- Confusing “appendix” with “annex”: While both can refer to supplementary sections in a document, an annex typically refers to a more formal or official addition to a document, while appendix often refers to detailed extra content like charts or references.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Plural Form for “Appendix”
Ultimately, both appendices and appendixes are correct, but context is key. Whether you’re discussing the appendix in the human body or adding appendices to a research paper, your choice should reflect the tone and purpose of your writing.
For most formal writing, appendices is the preferred plural form. However, in more casual contexts, particularly when dealing with the anatomy or in modern usage, appendixes may feel more natural.
By understanding the subtle differences between these two terms, you can enhance your writing clarity and avoid common mistakes. When in doubt, follow the rules of the style guide you’re using, and remember that consistency is essential.
Quick Reference Table: Plural Forms of “Appendix”
| Context | Correct Plural |
|---|---|
| Medical / Anatomy | Appendixes |
| Formal Writing | Appendices |
| Books / Documents | Appendices |
| Casual Usage | Appendixes |
This guide should help you confidently choose the correct plural form in your writing. Whether you’re tackling an academic paper, a legal report, or a medical article, now you’ll know exactly when to use appendices and when to use appendixes.