The English language has a knack for confusing even native speakers. One prime example is the word “syllabus.” When it comes to its plural, you might have heard both “syllabuses” and “syllabi.” But which is correct? Are both acceptable? Let’s dive into the plural of syllabus and unravel the mystery, once and for all.
What Does “Syllabus” Mean?
A syllabus is an academic course document that outlines the content, schedule, policies, and expectations of a course. It acts as a roadmap for students, detailing everything from required readings to grading criteria.
While traditionally associated with college and university courses, the term has also seeped into business and training programs, where a course outline is needed to organize content and expectations.
Examples of syllabus usage:
- “The professor handed out the syllabus on the first day of class.”
- “Our training syllabus includes modules on leadership and communication.”
Syllabuses or Syllabi? Which is Correct?
Here’s the short answer: Both “syllabuses” and “syllabi” are correct plurals of syllabus.
However, the choice depends on context, audience, and personal or institutional preference. “Syllabuses” follows the standard –es ending for plural in English, while “syllabi” adopts the Latin plural form.
Syllabuses vs Syllabi — Usage Breakdown
| Plural Form | Type | Common Context |
|---|---|---|
| Syllabuses | English plural form | Modern, casual, business settings |
| Syllabi | Latin-derived plural endings | Academic, formal, traditional texts |
While you might see syllabi used in scholarly circles, syllabuses has gained traction in everyday English.
Language Tip: When in doubt, opt for “syllabuses” — it’s clear, widely accepted, and avoids any unnecessary linguistic fuss.
The Etymology of Syllabus — A Tale of a Printing Error
Here’s where things get interesting. The etymology of syllabus is rooted in a printing mistake.
The word “syllabus” doesn’t come from classical Latin. It originated from a misinterpretation of the Greek word “sittybos,” meaning a parchment label or slip. During the Renaissance, early scholars misprinted the term in Latin manuscripts, and “syllabus” was born.
Key Takeaway:
- Syllabus is a “pseudo-Latin” word, meaning it wasn’t an authentic Latin noun.
- Yet, over time, people began applying Latin plural forms like syllabi.
How to Pluralize Words Ending in –us
Many English nouns ending in –us come from Latin. But not all follow the same pluralization pattern.
Pluralization Patterns for –us Words
| Singular | Classical Plural | Modern Plural | Preferred Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Syllabus | Syllabi | Syllabuses | Both accepted |
| Cactus | Cacti | Cactuses | “Cacti” in botany |
| Focus | Foci | Focuses | “Foci” in technical contexts |
| Virus | (No classical plural) | Viruses | Only “viruses” |
| Alumnus | Alumni | — | Always “alumni” for males/mixed |
Observation:
- Some words stick to their Latin plural forms (e.g., “alumni”).
- Others adapt to English plural forms with –es endings (e.g., “viruses”).
- Syllabus sits in a grey area where both forms are grammatically correct.
The Myth of “Syllaboi” — Why It’s Incorrect
Every now and then, you might stumble across the term “syllaboi”. Don’t fall for it. This is a false plural created by misunderstanding Greek grammar.
Since “syllabus” itself isn’t a true Latin or Greek word, there’s no basis for forming a plural like “syllaboi.” Using it will make you sound quirky at best and incorrect at worst.
Syllabuses vs Syllabi in Context — Real Examples
Let’s see both plural forms in action to understand their nuances.
Singular (Syllabus) Example Sentences
- “This syllabus includes all the reading assignments for the semester.”
- “The course syllabus must be submitted before the term begins.”
Syllabuses Usage Examples
- “Different professors use different syllabuses to structure the same subject.”
- “Corporate training syllabuses often lack interactive content.”
Syllabi Usage Examples
- “The university’s department chairs reviewed all course syllabi for curriculum alignment.”
- “Students requested digital copies of their syllabi before the first week of classes.”
Pro Tip:
- Use syllabuses in casual, business, or everyday English.
- Use syllabi in academic papers or formal discussions if you want to sound more traditional.
Usage Trends — What Do People Actually Say?
Data reveals that syllabuses is increasingly favored in modern usage of syllabus, especially in digital media, blogs, and spoken English.
However, syllabi maintains a stronghold in academic writing and institutional documents.
Google Ngram Viewer Insights
| Year | Syllabuses (%) | Syllabi (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 1950 | 10% | 90% |
| 1980 | 30% | 70% |
| 2020 | 60% | 40% |
Synonyms and Alternatives to “Syllabus”
When in doubt, you can sidestep the plural confusion by using synonyms.
Formal Synonyms
- Course Outline
- Curriculum Guide
- Academic Program Sheet
- Lesson Plan
Informal Alternatives (Use with Caution)
- Class Handout
- Course Sheet
- Agenda
Note: While alternatives like “course outline” are widely accepted, ensure they fit the formality of your content.
Style Guides on Correct Plural Usage
What do official writing authorities say about syllabuses vs syllabi?
- Oxford English Dictionary (OED): Both are correct, but syllabuses is more in tune with English plural rules.
- APA & MLA Style Guides: Prefer syllabuses, but syllabi is acceptable in academic publications.
- University Preferences: Some universities may lean towards syllabi to preserve a scholarly tone.
Tip:
When writing for formal publications, check the style guide’s preference. For general communication, syllabuses is always a safe bet.
Quick Reference: Syllabus Plural Decision Guide
| Scenario | Recommended Plural | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Casual conversation | Syllabuses | Sounds natural, avoids confusion |
| Business documentation | Syllabuses | Simpler and clearer |
| Academic research paper | Syllabi | Retains formal tone |
| Mixed audience presentation | Syllabuses | Universally understood |
FAQs — Clearing Up the Last Bits of Confusion
Q: Can “syllabi” be considered wrong?
A: No. Both syllabuses and syllabi are grammatically correct.
Q: Is “syllabuses” more American?
A: Yes. Syllabuses aligns with modern English plural forms and is widely used in American English.
Q: Why does “syllabuses” sound odd to some?
A: People often default to Latin plural forms for –us words, which makes “syllabuses” feel unfamiliar.
Q: Are both forms acceptable in exams and official documents?
A: Absolutely. Unless specified by an institution, both forms are acceptable.
Conclusion: Which Plural of Syllabus Should You Use?
To wrap it up:
- Syllabuses is the standard English plural form, easy to understand, and universally accepted.
- Syllabi is a Latin plural form that adds a touch of formality.
Both are grammatically correct, so your choice boils down to audience, tone, and context. When in doubt, go with syllabuses — it’s clear, simple, and won’t make readers pause.
Final Word
Language evolves. What once sounded pretentious can become the norm, and what was once rigidly formal can mellow into everyday speech. In the case of syllabuses vs syllabi, the key is to choose clarity over tradition, and context over convention.