Understanding the plural forms of words borrowed from other languages, like “memorandum,” can be tricky but is essential for clear and accurate communication. Knowing whether to use “memorandums” or “memoranda” depends on the context and your audience.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to the plural of “memorandum,” covering its definition, usage, and common mistakes. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply an English language enthusiast, this guide will help you confidently navigate this grammatical nuance.
By the end of this article, you’ll not only know the correct plural forms of “memorandum” but also understand the historical and linguistic reasons behind them. You’ll be equipped with practical examples, usage rules, and helpful exercises to solidify your understanding.
Let’s dive in and unravel the intricacies of this interesting grammatical topic.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition of Memorandum
- Structural Breakdown
- Plural Forms: Memorandums vs. Memoranda
- Examples of Usage
- Usage Rules and Guidelines
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion
Definition of Memorandum
A memorandum, often shortened to “memo,” is a written message, especially in business or diplomacy. It is used to communicate policies, procedures, or official business within an organization. Memorandums can also be used to request information, provide updates, or confirm agreements. The primary function of a memorandum is to provide a concise and clear record of communication.
Memorandums are typically less formal than letters but more formal than casual emails. They usually follow a specific format, including a heading with the sender’s name, recipient’s name, date, and subject.
The body of the memorandum should be clear, concise, and focused on the main point. Depending on the context, a memorandum may require a signature or initials for verification.
Structural Breakdown
The word “memorandum” is derived from Latin, where it means “something to be remembered.” Its structure reflects this origin. Let’s break down its components:
- Root: “memor” (Latin for “mindful” or “remembering”)
- Suffix: “-andum” (a gerundive suffix indicating something “to be done” or “to be remembered”)
This structure is important because it explains why the word has two accepted plural forms in English: one that follows standard English pluralization rules (“memorandums”) and one that adheres to the original Latin pluralization (“memoranda”). Understanding the etymology helps to appreciate the nuances of its usage.
Plural Forms: Memorandums vs. Memoranda
The word “memorandum” has two accepted plural forms: “memorandums” and “memoranda.” The choice between them often depends on the context, formality, and personal preference.
Memorandums: The English Plural
“Memorandums” is the plural form created by adding the standard English plural suffix “-s” to the singular form. This is the more common and widely accepted plural form, especially in business and everyday contexts.
It is generally considered less formal than “memoranda.”
Memoranda: The Latin Plural
“Memoranda” is the plural form that follows the original Latin declension. In Latin, nouns ending in “-um” often form their plural by changing the ending to “-a.” While grammatically correct and historically accurate, “memoranda” is generally considered more formal and less frequently used in modern English, particularly in business settings.
However, it is still used, especially in academic or legal contexts.
Examples of Usage
To illustrate the appropriate usage of “memorandums” and “memoranda,” let’s examine several examples in different contexts.
Examples Using “Memorandums”
The following table provides examples of sentences using “memorandums.” Notice how this plural form is often used in business and less formal scenarios.
| Sentence |
|---|
| The manager sent out several memorandums regarding the new company policy. |
| We received three memorandums this week outlining the project milestones. |
| Please review the memorandums from the HR department before the meeting. |
| The CEO signed all the memorandums before distributing them. |
| I filed all the important memorandums in the designated folder. |
| The committee reviewed the memorandums submitted by the various departments. |
| The administrative assistant drafted several memorandums for the executive team. |
| The staff was instructed to read all memorandums carefully. |
| The company archives contain thousands of old memorandums. |
| The new software helps us track all outgoing memorandums. |
| The director approved the distribution of the memorandums. |
| She collected the memorandums after the meeting. |
| The memorandums detailed the changes in the budget. |
| He organized the memorandums by date. |
| The employees read the memorandums during their lunch break. |
| The memorandums were printed on company letterhead. |
| The supervisor distributed the memorandums to the team. |
| The memorandums outlined the new safety protocols. |
| The memorandums confirmed the details of the agreement. |
| The memorandums were a critical part of the communication strategy. |
| The memorandums provided updates on the project’s progress. |
| The memorandums were sent to all stakeholders. |
| The memorandums served as a formal record of the decisions made. |
| The memorandums were used to communicate important announcements. |
| The memorandums clarified the roles and responsibilities of each team member. |
| The memorandums helped to keep everyone informed and on track. |
| The memorandums were an essential tool for effective management. |
| The memorandums were stored in a secure location. |
| The memorandums were reviewed by the legal department. |
Examples Using “Memoranda”
The following table provides examples of sentences using “memoranda.” This plural form is more common in formal, academic, or legal contexts.
| Sentence |
|---|
| The historical society has preserved numerous memoranda from the 19th century. |
| The legal team reviewed all the relevant memoranda before the trial. |
| These memoranda provide valuable insights into the company’s past decisions. |
| The professor assigned us to analyze several memoranda from government archives. |
| The committee discussed the issues raised in the submitted memoranda. |
| The research paper cited several memoranda as primary sources. |
| The board of directors examined the memoranda concerning the proposed merger. |
| The library’s collection includes a vast array of historical memoranda. |
| The historian studied the memoranda to understand the political climate of the time. |
| The archives contain classified memoranda that are not available to the public. |
| The memoranda detailed the sensitive negotiations. |
| The memoranda were crucial for understanding the context of the events. |
| The memoranda revealed the complexities of the situation. |
| The memoranda provided a glimpse into the past. |
| The memoranda were carefully preserved for future generations. |
| The memoranda documented the key decisions made during the period. |
| The memoranda outlined the strategies and tactics used. |
| The memoranda contained valuable information about the individuals involved. |
| The memoranda shed light on the motivations behind the actions taken. |
| The memoranda were essential for reconstructing the historical narrative. |
| The memoranda were analyzed by experts in various fields. |
| The memoranda were used to support the arguments presented in the report. |
| The memoranda were cited as evidence in the legal proceedings. |
| The memoranda were translated into multiple languages. |
| The memoranda were stored in a climate-controlled environment. |
| The memoranda were digitized for easier access. |
| The memoranda were indexed and cataloged for efficient retrieval. |
| The memoranda were a valuable resource for researchers and scholars. |
| The memoranda were a testament to the importance of record-keeping. |
Formal vs. Informal Contexts
This table illustrates how the choice between “memorandums” and “memoranda” can vary based on the context’s formality.
| Context | Sentence with “Memorandums” | Sentence with “Memoranda” |
|---|---|---|
| Business Meeting | “We need to review these memorandums before making a decision.” | “The committee analyzed the memoranda pertaining to the proposed changes.” |
| Academic Research | “The professor mentioned several key memorandums in his lecture.” | “The research relied heavily on primary source memoranda.” |
| Legal Proceedings | “The paralegal organized the memorandums for the case.” | “The court examined the memoranda as evidence.” |
| Internal Company Communication | “Please distribute these memorandums to all employees.” | “The executive team reviewed the confidential memoranda.” |
| Historical Archives | “The archivist found several interesting memorandums from the past.” | “The archives contain significant historical memoranda.” |
| Everyday Conversation | “Did you read those memorandums about the new policy?” | “We need to discuss the implications of these memoranda further.” |
| Official Documentation | “The memorandums were filed in the company’s records.” | “The memoranda formed the basis of the legal agreement.” |
| Training Sessions | “The trainees studied the memorandums to understand the procedures.” | “The training materials included excerpts from relevant memoranda.” |
| Project Management | “The project manager circulated the memorandums to update the team.” | “The memoranda documented the project’s key milestones.” |
| Government Agencies | “The agency released several memorandums to the public.” | “The classified memoranda were kept under strict security.” |
Usage Rules and Guidelines
Choosing between “memorandums” and “memoranda” involves considering the level of formality and the specific context. Here are some guidelines to help you make the right choice:
Formal Writing
In formal writing, such as academic papers, legal documents, or official reports, “memoranda” is often preferred. This usage reflects a more traditional and precise approach to language, aligning with the word’s Latin origins.
Using “memoranda” can add a sense of authority and sophistication to your writing.
Informal Writing
In informal writing, such as internal company communications, emails, or casual conversations, “memorandums” is generally more appropriate. This form is simpler and more accessible, making it suitable for everyday use.
Opting for “memorandums” in these contexts ensures that your message is easily understood without sounding overly pretentious.
Context-Specific Usage
Certain fields or organizations may have specific preferences. For example, a law firm might consistently use “memoranda” in its documents, while a tech company might prefer “memorandums” in its internal communications.
Pay attention to the conventions of the environment in which you are writing or speaking. When in doubt, consider your audience and the overall tone you wish to convey.
The following table summarizes the usage rules:
| Context | Preferred Plural Form | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Formal Writing (Academic, Legal) | Memoranda | Reflects traditional usage and adds formality. |
| Informal Writing (Business, Everyday) | Memorandums | Simpler and more widely understood. |
| Specific Organizations | Varies | Adheres to specific industry or company standards. |
Common Mistakes
One common mistake is using “memoranda” in informal contexts where “memorandums” would be more appropriate. Another error is using “memorandum” as a plural form.
Here are some examples of common mistakes and their corrections:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| I received two memorandum this morning. | I received two memorandums this morning. | “Memorandum” is singular; use the plural form. |
| The email contained several memoranda regarding the new policy. (in an informal email) | The email contained several memorandums regarding the new policy. | “Memorandums” is more appropriate for informal communication. |
| The report included a memorandum from the CEO. | The report included a memorandum from the CEO. (Correct as is, singular) | This sentence is correct because it refers to a single memorandum. |
| We reviewed the memorandums in the archives. (In a historical research paper) | We reviewed the memoranda in the archives. | “Memoranda” is more appropriate in academic contexts. |
| He sent a memoranda to all employees. | He sent a memorandum to all employees. | “Memoranda” is plural; use the singular form “memorandum” with the article “a.” |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of the plural forms of “memorandum” with the following exercises.
Exercise 1: Choose the Correct Plural
Choose the correct plural form (“memorandums” or “memoranda”) for each sentence.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. The lawyer reviewed the ________ before the trial. | memoranda |
| 2. The manager sent out several ________ about the new dress code. | memorandums |
| 3. The historical society preserved the ________ from the war era. | memoranda |
| 4. I found two ________ on my desk this morning. | memorandums |
| 5. The committee discussed the issues raised in the submitted ________. | memoranda |
| 6. Please distribute these ________ to all team members. | memorandums |
| 7. The archives contain confidential ________ that cannot be disclosed. | memoranda |
| 8. The staff was asked to read all ________ carefully. | memorandums |
| 9. The professor analyzed the ________ from the ancient civilization. | memoranda |
| 10. The CEO signed all the ________ before the meeting. | memorandums |
Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the correct plural form (“memorandums” or “memoranda”).
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. The company keeps all important ________ in a secure database. | memorandums |
| 2. The historian studied the ________ to understand the political climate. | memoranda |
| 3. The department issued several ________ clarifying the new regulations. | memorandums |
| 4. The research team examined the ________ from the scientific expedition. | memoranda |
| 5. The supervisor asked us to review the ________ before submitting our reports. | memorandums |
| 6. The library’s collection includes a variety of historical ________. | memoranda |
| 7. The administration sent out ________ regarding the upcoming holiday schedule. | memorandums |
| 8. The council reviewed the submitted ________ before making a decision. | memoranda |
| 9. We need to file these ________ in the appropriate folders. | memorandums |
| 10. The legal team analyzed the ________ related to the case. | memoranda |
Exercise 3: Sentence Correction
Correct the following sentences, if necessary, using the appropriate plural form.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. I received three memorandum from the head office. | I received three memorandums from the head office. |
| 2. The historical society has many memorandum from the 1800s. | The historical society has many memoranda from the 1800s. |
| 3. Please read the memorandum carefully before signing. | Please read the memorandum carefully before signing. (Correct as is) |
| 4. The lawyer presented the memoranda to the court. (In an informal context) | The lawyer presented the memorandums to the court. |
| 5. The manager drafted several memoranda for the team. (In an informal context) | The manager drafted several memorandums for the team. |
| 6. The archives contained classified memorandums about the secret mission. | The archives contained classified memoranda about the secret mission. |
| 7. The students analyzed the memoranda for their research paper. | The students analyzed the memoranda for their research paper. (Correct as is) |
| 8. The company sent out numerous memorandum regarding the new policy. | The company sent out numerous memorandums regarding the new policy. |
| 9. The committee studied the memorandum before voting. | The committee studied the memorandum before voting. (Correct as is) |
| 10. The government released several memorandum to the public. | The government released several memorandums to the public. |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, let’s delve deeper into the etymology of “memorandum” and explore other Latin plurals commonly used in English.
Etymology of Memorandum
The word “memorandum” comes from the Latin word memorandus, which is the gerundive form of the verb memorare, meaning “to remember.” The suffix “-andum” indicates something that “must be remembered” or “should be noted.” This etymological background highlights the original purpose of a memorandum: to serve as a reminder or record of important information.
Other Latin Plurals in English
English has borrowed many words from Latin, and some retain their original Latin plural forms. Understanding these patterns can help you navigate similar grammatical challenges.
Here are a few examples:
- Datum (singular) / Data (plural): A piece of information.
- Curriculum (singular) / Curricula (plural): The subjects comprising a course of study.
- Radius (singular) / Radii (plural): A straight line from the center to the circumference of a circle or sphere.
- Focus (singular) / Foci (plural): The center of interest or activity.
- Appendix (singular) / Appendices (plural): Supplementary material at the end of a book or document. Alternatively, “appendixes” is also acceptable.
As with “memorandum,” the choice between the Latin plural and the Anglicized plural often depends on context and formality. The trend in modern English is towards using the Anglicized plural (adding “-s” or “-es”) in less formal settings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some frequently asked questions about the plural of “memorandum.”
- Is “memoranda” outdated?
While “memoranda” is less common than “memorandums” in everyday contexts, it is not outdated. It remains appropriate and even preferred in formal, academic, and legal writing.
- Can I use “memos” instead of “memorandums” or “memoranda”?
Yes, “memos” is a perfectly acceptable and common plural form of “memo,” the shortened version of “memorandum.” It is generally used in informal contexts.
- Which plural form should I use in a business email?
In most business email contexts, “memorandums” is the safer and more widely understood choice. However, if you know your audience appreciates a more formal tone, “memoranda” can be used.
- Is it ever incorrect to use “memorandums”?
While generally acceptable, using “memorandums” in a highly formal or academic paper might be perceived as less sophisticated than using “memoranda.” Consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing.
- Are there other words with similar pluralization rules?
Yes, many words borrowed from Latin follow similar pluralization rules, such as “curriculum” (curricula) and “datum” (data). Understanding these patterns can help you navigate similar grammatical challenges.
- What if I’m unsure which plural to use?
When in doubt, “memorandums” is generally the safer choice, as it is more widely understood and accepted in various contexts. However, consider the formality of the situation and your audience.
- Does the use of “memoranda” or “memorandums” change the meaning of the sentence?
No, the meaning of the sentence remains the same regardless of whether you use “memoranda” or “memorandums.” The choice primarily affects the tone and formality of the writing.
- Is there a regional preference for one plural form over the other?
While there might be slight regional variations in usage, the preference for “memorandums” or “memoranda” is more influenced by the context and formality of the writing than by geographical location.
Conclusion
Mastering the plural forms of “memorandum” – “memorandums” and “memoranda” – is a valuable skill for effective communication. Understanding the nuances of their usage, from formal academic papers to informal business emails, ensures clarity and precision in your writing and speech.
Remember that “memorandums” is generally more common and acceptable in everyday contexts, while “memoranda” adds a touch of formality and is often preferred in academic or legal settings.
By applying the rules and guidelines discussed in this article, you can confidently choose the appropriate plural form and avoid common mistakes. Keep practicing with the exercises provided, and don’t hesitate to consult dictionaries or style guides when in doubt.
With a little attention to detail, you can master this grammatical challenge and enhance your overall language proficiency.