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“Alumni”: Singular or Plural? Mastering This Tricky Noun

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The word “alumni” often causes confusion, even among native English speakers. Is it singular or plural?

When do you use “alumnus,” “alumna,” or “alumnae”? Understanding the nuances of these Latin-derived terms is essential for clear and correct communication, especially in academic and professional settings.

This article will provide a comprehensive guide to the proper usage of “alumni” and its related forms, covering definitions, structural breakdowns, usage rules, common mistakes, and practice exercises to help you master this tricky noun.

Whether you’re writing a college application, crafting a professional email, or simply looking to improve your grammar skills, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to use “alumni” correctly. We’ll explore the history and origins of these words, delve into their grammatical functions, and provide plenty of examples to illustrate their proper usage.

By the end of this article, you’ll be able to navigate the complexities of “alumni” and its related forms with ease.

Table of Contents

Definition of Alumni and Related Terms

To understand whether “alumni” is singular or plural, it’s crucial to define all related terms. These words, derived from Latin, refer to graduates or former students of a school, college, or university.

The correct usage depends on the gender and number of individuals being referred to.

Alumnus

Alumnus is the singular, masculine form. It refers to a single male graduate or former student. For instance, “He is an alumnus of Harvard University.” It’s important to remember that this form is specifically for male individuals.

Alumna

Alumna is the singular, feminine form. It refers to a single female graduate or former student. An example would be, “She is an alumna of Yale University.” This form is exclusively for female individuals.

Alumni

Alumni is the plural form. It traditionally refers to a group of male graduates or a mixed-gender group of graduates. It is now commonly used as a gender-neutral plural term for graduates of any gender. For example, “The alumni gathered for their 20-year reunion.” The shift towards gender-neutral usage is increasingly prevalent.

Alumnae

Alumnae is the plural, feminine form. It refers to a group of female graduates or former students. For example, “The alumnae of the women’s college organized a fundraising event.” This form is specifically for groups of female individuals.

Structural Breakdown

Understanding the structure of these words helps in remembering their correct usage. The words are derived from Latin, and their forms reflect Latin grammar rules.

Etymology and Latin Roots

The word “alumnus” comes from the Latin word meaning “foster son” or “pupil.” In Latin, nouns have different endings to indicate their gender and number. The masculine singular ending is “-us,” the feminine singular ending is “-a,” the masculine/mixed plural ending is “-i,” and the feminine plural ending is “-ae.” These endings are reflected in the English usage of these terms.

Gendered vs. Gender-Neutral Forms

While traditionally “alumni” was used for groups of men or mixed-gender groups, modern usage often favors it as a gender-neutral plural term. This reflects a broader trend in language towards gender inclusivity.

However, it’s still important to be aware of the gendered forms (“alumnus,” “alumna,” and “alumnae”) to understand their historical context and to use them correctly when referring specifically to individuals or groups of a particular gender.

Types and Categories

To further clarify the usage, let’s categorize the different scenarios in which these words are used.

Single Male Graduate

Use “alumnus” when referring to a single male graduate. This is the most straightforward case.

Single Female Graduate

Use “alumna” when referring to a single female graduate. This is equally straightforward.

Multiple Male Graduates

Use “alumni” when referring to multiple male graduates. This is the traditional masculine plural form.

Multiple Female Graduates

Use “alumnae” when referring to multiple female graduates. This is the feminine plural form.

Mixed-Gender Graduates

Traditionally, “alumni” was used for mixed-gender groups. However, in modern usage, “alumni” is increasingly accepted as a gender-neutral term for any group of graduates, regardless of gender composition.

Some institutions might prefer using “alumni/ae” to explicitly acknowledge both genders. However, this form is less common in general writing.

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Examples of Usage

The best way to solidify your understanding is through examples. Here are several examples illustrating the correct use of each term.

Alumnus Examples

The following table provides examples of how to properly use “alumnus” in sentences. Note that it always refers to a single, male graduate.

# Sentence
1 He is a proud alumnus of Stanford University.
2 As an alumnus, he often returns to speak to current students.
3 The distinguished alumnus received an honorary degree.
4 John Smith, an alumnus of the engineering program, donated generously.
5 Every year, the university honors a notable alumnus.
6 The alumnus shared his career experiences with the graduating class.
7 Being an alumnus of this institution carries significant weight.
8 The successful entrepreneur is an alumnus of our business school.
9 He remains an active alumnus, participating in alumni events.
10 The university’s website featured a profile of a prominent alumnus.
11 The former student, now an alumnus, visited his old professors.
12 He is considered a leading alumnus in the field of medicine.
13 The alumnus was invited to join the university’s advisory board.
14 This celebrated alumnus is a source of inspiration for many.
15 As an alumnus, he understands the university’s traditions.
16 The alumnus delivered a powerful speech at the graduation ceremony.
17 His legacy as an alumnus will be remembered for years to come.
18 The alumnus expressed his gratitude for the education he received.
19 He is an alumnus and a dedicated supporter of the university.
20 The alumnus established a scholarship fund for deserving students.
21 He is the most famous alumnus this school has ever had.
22 The alumnus dedicated his life to public service after graduating.

Alumna Examples

The following table provides examples of how to properly use “alumna” in sentences. Note that it always refers to a single, female graduate.

# Sentence
1 She is a distinguished alumna of Oxford University.
2 The successful novelist is an alumna of our English department.
3 As an alumna, she actively participates in the mentorship program.
4 The university celebrated its most accomplished alumna.
5 The alumna donated a significant sum to the library.
6 She is an alumna and a strong advocate for women in STEM.
7 The alumna‘s achievements were recognized at the annual gala.
8 The alumna shared her experiences as a woman in business.
9 As a proud alumna, she wears her university ring every day.
10 The alumna established a foundation to support underprivileged students.
11 The college invited a famous alumna to deliver the commencement speech.
12 She is regarded as a prominent alumna in the legal profession.
13 The alumna‘s research significantly contributed to the field of medicine.
14 This celebrated alumna is a role model for young women.
15 As an alumna, she remains deeply connected to the university.
16 The alumna returned to campus to inspire the next generation of leaders.
17 Her success as an alumna is a testament to the quality of education.
18 The alumna expressed her commitment to giving back to the community.
19 She is an alumna and a passionate supporter of the arts.
20 The alumna endowed a scholarship to support female students in engineering.
21 She is the most decorated alumna this school has ever had.
22 The alumna dedicated her life to environmental conservation after graduating.

Alumni Examples

The following table provides examples of how to properly use “alumni” in sentences. Note that it usually refers to a group of graduates (either all male, or mixed gender in the traditional sense, or any gender in the modern sense).

# Sentence
1 The alumni association organizes annual networking events.
2 Many alumni donate generously to the university’s endowment fund.
3 The alumni gathered for their 50-year reunion.
4 The university is proud of its successful alumni.
5 The alumni network is a valuable resource for job seekers.
6 The alumni of the medical school are renowned for their expertise.
7 The university hosted a dinner for its distinguished alumni.
8 The alumni shared their experiences with current students.
9 The university relies on the support of its alumni.
10 The alumni association raised funds for student scholarships.
11 The school’s most successful alumni were invited to speak.
12 The alumni from the class of 1970 still keep in touch.
13 The university honored its outstanding alumni at a special ceremony.
14 The alumni provided valuable mentorship to the graduating class.
15 The university’s reputation is enhanced by the achievements of its alumni.
16 The alumni organized a campaign to support the university’s research initiatives.
17 The university values the contributions of its alumni.
18 The alumni association provides career resources and networking opportunities.
19 The alumni gathered to celebrate the university’s anniversary.
20 The university’s success is a reflection of the dedication of its alumni.
21 The alumni are a close-knit community that supports each other.
22 Many of the university’s alumni have gone on to achieve great things.
23 The alumni were eager to reconnect with their former classmates.
24 The university’s alumni are its greatest ambassadors.
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Alumnae Examples

The following table provides examples of how to properly use “alumnae” in sentences. Note that it always refers to a group of female graduates.

# Sentence
1 The alumnae of the women’s college have a strong bond.
2 The alumnae association supports scholarships for female students.
3 The alumnae organized a mentoring program for current students.
4 The college is proud of its successful alumnae.
5 The alumnae network is a valuable resource for women in business.
6 The alumnae of the nursing school are highly sought after.
7 The college hosted a luncheon for its distinguished alumnae.
8 The alumnae shared their career paths with the graduating class.
9 The college depends on the generosity of its alumnae.
10 The alumnae association raised funds for a new women’s center.
11 The school’s most accomplished alumnae were honored at a special event.
12 The alumnae from the class of 1980 still meet annually.
13 The college recognized its outstanding alumnae at the commencement ceremony.
14 The alumnae provided invaluable advice to the graduating women.
15 The college’s reputation is enhanced by the achievements of its alumnae.
16 The alumnae organized a fundraising gala to support women’s health initiatives.
17 The college values the contributions of its alumnae.
18 The alumnae association offers professional development workshops.
19 The alumnae gathered to celebrate the college’s centennial.
20 The college’s success is a testament to the dedication of its alumnae.
21 The alumnae are a powerful network of women supporting each other.
22 Many of the college’s alumnae have become leaders in their respective fields.

Usage Rules

To ensure correct usage, it’s important to follow specific rules and guidelines.

Formal vs. Informal Contexts

In formal writing, it’s generally advisable to use the gender-specific forms (“alumnus,” “alumna,” “alumnae”) when referring to specific individuals or groups. In more informal contexts, “alumni” is often acceptable as a gender-neutral plural, even if referring to a group of only women.

Possessive Forms

The possessive forms are created as follows:
* Alumnus’s (singular male)
* Alumna’s (singular female)
* Alumni’s (plural, male or mixed-gender)
* Alumnae’s (plural, female)

For example: “The alumnus’s donation,” “The alumna’s award,” “The alumni’s contributions,” “The alumnae’s efforts.”

Agreement with Verbs

Since “alumni” and “alumnae” are plural, they require plural verbs. “Alumnus” and “alumna” are singular and require singular verbs.

For example: “The alumnus *is* attending,” “The alumna *has* donated,” “The alumni *are* supportive,” “The alumnae *have* contributed.”

Common Mistakes

Several common errors occur when using these terms. Being aware of these mistakes can help you avoid them.

Incorrect Pluralization

A common mistake is using “alumnus” as a plural form (e.g., “Several alumnus attended the event”). The correct plural form is “alumni.”

Incorrect: Several alumnus attended the event.
Correct: Several alumni attended the event.

Gender Mix-ups

Another mistake is using the wrong gendered form (e.g., referring to a female graduate as “alumnus”). Always ensure you’re using the correct form based on the individual’s gender.

Incorrect: She is a proud alumnus of the university.
Correct: She is a proud alumna of the university.

Confusing with Other Words

Sometimes, learners might confuse “alumni” with other similar-sounding words. Always double-check the spelling and meaning to ensure you’re using the correct word.

Incorrect: The school held an annual aluminum gathering. (Aluminum is a metal)
Correct: The school held an annual alumni gathering.

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding with these practice exercises.

Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks

Fill in the blanks with the correct form of “alumnus,” “alumna,” “alumni,” or “alumnae.”

# Question Answer
1 He is a former student; he is an _______ of the university. alumnus
2 She graduated last year; she is an _______ of the college. alumna
3 The _______ association is hosting a reunion. alumni
4 The women’s college celebrated its successful _______. alumnae
5 Several _______ from the class of 1990 attended the event. alumni
6 She is the most generous _______ this school has ever seen. alumna
7 He is a well-respected _______ in the field of engineering. alumnus
8 The _______ of Smith College are known for their achievements. alumnae
9 As an _______, he frequently visits the campus. alumnus
10 As an _______, she volunteers her time to mentor students. alumna

Exercise 2: Correct the Errors

Identify and correct the errors in the following sentences.

# Incorrect Sentence Correct Sentence
1 She is a proud alumnus of the school. She is a proud alumna of the school.
2 Several alumnus attended the meeting. Several alumni attended the meeting.
3 The alumnae association welcomed new members. The alumni association welcomed new members. (Assuming mixed gender) or The alumnae association welcomed new members. (If all female)
4 He is an alumnae of Harvard. He is an alumnus of Harvard.
5 The alumni’s contributions was significant. The alumni’s contributions were significant.
6 That is the most famous alumnae I know. That is the most famous alumna I know.
7 There were only one alumnus present. There was only one alumnus present.
8 The alumnae are all very successful. The alumnae are all very successful. (Correct if all female. If mixed genders, use alumni)
9 The alumnus donated to the fund. The alumnus donated to the fund. (Correct)
10 She is a great alumni. She is a great alumna.
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Exercise 3: Sentence Construction

Write sentences using the given words correctly.

# Word Sentence
1 Alumnus He is a distinguished alumnus of the university’s law school.
2 Alumna She is a renowned alumna who has made significant contributions to science.
3 Alumni The alumni network provides valuable career opportunities for graduates.
4 Alumnae The alumnae of the women’s college have created a strong support system.
5 Alumnus’s The alumnus’s generous donation helped fund a new research center.
6 Alumna’s The alumna’s achievements were celebrated at the awards ceremony.
7 Alumni’s The alumni’s support is crucial for the university’s continued success.
8 Alumnae’s The alumnae’s efforts have greatly benefited the college’s scholarship program.
9 Alumnus (plural) Several alumni from the engineering department returned for the career fair.
10 Alumna (plural) The alumnae of the nursing program are highly respected in the healthcare field.

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, let’s explore some nuanced aspects of using these terms.

Usage in Different English-Speaking Countries

While the basic rules remain consistent across English-speaking countries, there might be slight variations in usage or preferred terminology. For example, in some regions, the gender-neutral use of “alumni” might be more widely accepted than in others.

Always be mindful of your audience and the context in which you are writing.

Evolving Language and Gender-Neutral Alternatives

Language is constantly evolving, and there is a growing movement towards gender-neutral language. While “alumni” is often used as a gender-neutral plural, some institutions or individuals may prefer alternative terms such as “graduates,” “former students,” or “alums.” It’s important to be aware of these alternatives and to use them when appropriate or preferred.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about the usage of “alumni” and related terms.

  1. Is “alumni” always plural?
    Yes, “alumni” is a plural form. The singular forms are “alumnus” (male) and “alumna” (female).
  2. Can I use “alumni” to refer to a group of only women?
    Traditionally, “alumni” referred to a group of men or a mixed-gender group. However, modern usage increasingly accepts “alumni” as a gender-neutral plural term. If you know the group consists only of women, “alumnae” is more precise, but “alumni” is often considered acceptable, especially in informal contexts.
  3. What is the difference between “alumni” and “alumnae”?
    “Alumni” is the plural of “alumnus” (male graduate or mixed-gender graduates), while “alumnae” is the plural of “alumna” (female graduate).
  4. How do I form the possessive of “alumni”?
    The possessive of “alumni” is “alumni’s.” For example, “The alumni’s donations.”
  5. What if I don’t know the gender of the graduate?
    If you don’t know the gender, you can use the term “graduate” or “former student.” When referring to a group, “alumni” is generally accepted as a gender-neutral term.
  6. Is it ever acceptable to use “alums”?
    Yes, “alums” is an informal, gender-neutral abbreviation for “alumni.” It’s suitable for casual conversation or informal writing, but avoid using it in formal contexts.
  7. Should I use “alumni/ae” to be inclusive?
    “Alumni/ae” is sometimes used to explicitly acknowledge both male and female graduates. However, it can be clunky and is less common in general writing. Using “alumni” as a gender-neutral term is often preferred.
  8. What is the origin of these words?
    These words come from Latin. “Alumnus” means “foster son” or “pupil” in Latin. The different endings reflect Latin noun declensions based on gender and number.

Conclusion

Understanding the proper usage of “alumni,” “alumnus,” “alumna,” and “alumnae” is crucial for clear and accurate communication, especially in academic and professional settings. While these Latin-derived terms can be tricky, mastering their definitions, structural breakdowns, and usage rules will enhance your writing and speaking skills.

Remember that “alumni” is a plural form, often used as a gender-neutral term for graduates. “Alumnus” is the singular masculine form, and “alumna” is the singular feminine form.

“Alumnae” is the plural feminine form. By following the guidelines and practicing the exercises in this article, you can confidently use these terms correctly and avoid common mistakes.

As language evolves, staying informed about current usage and gender-neutral alternatives will further refine your understanding and communication skills.

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