What’s the Plural of Syllabus? A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding how to form plurals of nouns is a fundamental aspect of English grammar. While many nouns follow simple rules, others, especially those of foreign origin, can be tricky.

One such word is “syllabus.” Knowing the correct plural form of “syllabus” is essential for clear and accurate communication, whether you are a student, teacher, or academic writer. This article provides a detailed guide to the pluralization of “syllabus,” covering its definition, structural breakdown, usage rules, common mistakes, and practice exercises to help you master this grammatical concept.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Definition of Syllabus
• Structural Breakdown
• Plural Forms: Syllabuses vs. Syllabi
• Etymology and Influence
• Examples of Syllabus in Sentences
• Usage Rules and Guidelines
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Practice Exercises
• Advanced Topics
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Conclusion

Introduction

In the English language, forming the plural of nouns is often straightforward – simply add an “-s” or “-es.” However, certain words, particularly those borrowed from other languages like Latin or Greek, present unique challenges. “Syllabus” is one such word.

The correct plural form isn’t immediately obvious, and using the wrong form can detract from your writing or speech. This comprehensive guide will explore the nuances of pluralizing “syllabus,” providing clear explanations, examples, and practice exercises to ensure you understand and can confidently use the correct plural form in any context.

Whether you’re a student preparing for exams, an educator designing course materials, or simply someone looking to improve their grammar skills, this article will equip you with the knowledge you need.

Definition of Syllabus

A syllabus (plural: syllabuses or syllabi) is an outline or summary of the subjects to be covered in a course, lecture, or book. It typically includes a list of topics, readings, assignments, grading policies, and other relevant information for students. The syllabus serves as a roadmap for the course, providing students with a clear understanding of what to expect and how they will be evaluated. It acts as a contract between the instructor and the students, outlining the expectations and responsibilities of both parties. It is derived from Neo-Latin, believed to be a misreading of sittybas, a word associated with labels or tables of contents.

In academic settings, the syllabus is an indispensable tool. It is not merely a list of topics but a carefully crafted document that reflects the instructor’s pedagogical approach, learning objectives, and assessment strategies.

A well-designed syllabus can enhance student engagement, promote active learning, and foster a positive classroom environment. Furthermore, the syllabus often includes information about academic policies, such as attendance requirements, late submission penalties, and plagiarism guidelines, ensuring that students are aware of their rights and responsibilities.

Structural Breakdown

The word “syllabus” originates from Neo-Latin. Understanding its structure helps in correctly forming its plural.

The base word is “syllabus,” which ends in “-us.” Many words ending in “-us” in Latin follow a specific pattern when pluralized: the “-us” is replaced with “-i.” This pattern is why we have plurals like “alumnus” becoming “alumni” and “radius” becoming “radii.” However, English has a tendency to anglicize foreign words, often leading to the acceptance of both the original foreign plural and an English-derived plural formed by simply adding “-es” or “-s.”

Therefore, “syllabus” has two accepted plural forms: “syllabuses” and “syllabi.” “Syllabuses” is the more common and generally preferred form in contemporary English, as it follows the standard English pluralization rule. “Syllabi,” while grammatically correct and derived from the Latin root, is considered more formal and less frequently used.

Plural Forms: Syllabuses vs. Syllabi

As mentioned earlier, “syllabus” has two accepted plural forms: “syllabuses” and “syllabi.” Both are grammatically correct, but they differ in frequency of use and formality. Let’s delve deeper into each form:

Syllabuses

This is the more common plural form. It is formed by simply adding “-es” to the singular form “syllabus.” This follows the standard English rule for pluralizing nouns ending in “-s,” “-ss,” “-sh,” “-ch,” “-x,” or “-z.” Because of its simplicity and adherence to English pluralization rules, “syllabuses” is generally preferred in most contexts, especially in informal or general writing.

Syllabi

This plural form is derived directly from the Latin origin of the word. In Latin, nouns ending in “-us” often form their plural by changing the “-us” to “-i.” While grammatically correct, “syllabi” is considered more formal and less frequently used in modern English.

You might encounter it in academic writing or formal settings, but “syllabuses” is generally a safer and more widely accepted choice.

Etymology and Influence

The word “syllabus” has an intriguing etymological history. It originates from Neo-Latin, and its original meaning is somewhat obscure.

One prevailing theory suggests that “syllabus” arose from a misreading of the Greek word “sittybas,” which referred to labels or tables of contents attached to scrolls or books. Over time, the term evolved to denote a summary or outline of a course of study.

The Latin influence is evident in the alternative plural form, “syllabi,” which reflects the Latin pluralization rule for words ending in “-us.” The adoption of “syllabuses” as a plural form highlights the anglicization process that many borrowed words undergo as they become integrated into the English language. This process often involves adapting foreign words to conform to English spelling and grammatical conventions, resulting in multiple acceptable forms.

Examples of Syllabus in Sentences

To illustrate the correct usage of “syllabus” and its plural forms, here are several examples categorized by context:

Academic Context

The following table provides examples of how “syllabus” and its plural forms are used in academic contexts. These examples demonstrate the word’s usage in sentences related to course outlines, academic requirements, and educational planning.

Singular (Syllabus)	Plural (Syllabuses)	Plural (Syllabi)
The professor handed out the syllabus on the first day of class.	The department requires all instructors to submit their syllabuses before the semester begins.	The collection of syllabi from previous years provided valuable insights.
The syllabus clearly outlined the grading policy for the course.	We reviewed the syllabuses for all the introductory courses to ensure consistency.	The university archives housed a comprehensive selection of historical syllabi.
I reviewed the syllabus to understand the assignment deadlines.	The students complained that the syllabuses were too vague.	The committee examined the syllabi to identify areas for improvement.
The instructor referred to the syllabus throughout the lecture.	The instructors had to revise their syllabuses to reflect the new curriculum.	The old syllabi offered a glimpse into the history of the institution.
The syllabus included a detailed schedule of readings and assignments.	The revised syllabuses were distributed to all students.	The dean requested copies of all course syllabi for accreditation purposes.
The syllabus stated that late submissions would not be accepted.	The syllabuses were designed to promote active learning.	The faculty senate discussed the standardization of syllabi across departments.
According to the syllabus, the final exam is worth 40% of the grade.	The syllabuses for the online courses were particularly detailed.	The analysis of syllabi revealed a trend towards more student-centered learning.
The syllabus also included information about academic integrity.	The syllabuses were updated to include information about accessibility services.	The comparative study of syllabi highlighted the differences in teaching approaches.
I found the syllabus to be very helpful in organizing my studies.	The syllabuses were available on the course website.	The collection of syllabi was a valuable resource for new faculty members.
The syllabus mentioned a field trip, but did not specify the date.	The syllabuses outlined clear learning objectives for each module.	The review of syllabi helped ensure alignment with program goals.
The syllabus provided a comprehensive overview of the course content.	The syllabuses were reviewed by the curriculum committee.	The historical syllabi showed the evolution of academic disciplines.
Each student received a syllabus on the first day of the semester.	The syllabuses needed to be revised to reflect changes in the curriculum.	The evaluation of syllabi contributed to the assessment of teaching effectiveness.
The syllabus indicated that there would be weekly quizzes.	The syllabuses for the graduate-level courses were particularly rigorous.	The compilation of syllabi served as a reference guide for course development.
The syllabus included a list of required textbooks.	The syllabuses were designed to be accessible to students with disabilities.	The examination of syllabi revealed a focus on critical thinking skills.
The syllabus served as a contract between the instructor and the students.	The syllabuses were reviewed to ensure they met university standards.	The analysis of syllabi provided insights into pedagogical practices.
I often refer to the syllabus to stay on track with the course material.	The syllabuses were distributed both in print and electronically.	The study of syllabi helped to understand curriculum design principles.
The syllabus clearly stated the policy on academic dishonesty.	The syllabuses were designed to be informative and engaging.	The comparison of syllabi across different institutions revealed varying approaches.
The syllabus outlined the expectations for class participation.	The syllabuses for the online courses included interactive elements.	The review of syllabi contributed to the continuous improvement of teaching.
The syllabus provided contact information for the teaching assistant.	The syllabuses were regularly updated to reflect changes in the field.	The collection of syllabi showcased the breadth of academic offerings.

General Context

The following table illustrates the usage of “syllabus” and its plural forms in general contexts, showcasing their application in everyday language and broader discussions.

Singular (Syllabus)	Plural (Syllabuses)	Plural (Syllabi)
He created a syllabus for his self-study program.	She collected syllabuses from various online courses to compare their content.	He researched old syllabi at the library.
The training syllabus was very detailed.	The company provides syllabuses for all of its training programs.	The company reviewed the syllabi to improve training.
She followed the syllabus closely to ensure she covered all the material.	The students found the syllabuses helpful in planning their study schedule.	The professors discussed the syllabi during the faculty meeting.
The workshop syllabus included a list of recommended readings.	The organization distributed syllabuses for each workshop session.	The organization archived the syllabi for internal use.
The course syllabus was posted online for easy access.	The school provided syllabuses for all courses at the beginning of the year.	The school kept the syllabi in a digital format.
The speaker prepared a syllabus for his presentation.	The conference organizers distributed syllabuses to all attendees.	The conference committee reviewed the syllabi to ensure relevance to the theme.
The music school’s syllabus outlined the curriculum for each instrument.	The music school provided syllabuses outlining the learning outcomes.	The music school maintained syllabi for all courses.
The coding bootcamp syllabus included a list of projects.	The coding bootcamp made syllabuses available for prospective students.	The coding bootcamp updated the syllabi based on industry trends.
The cooking class syllabus listed the recipes to be covered.	The cooking school provided syllabuses for each course.	The cooking school archived the syllabi for future reference.
The yoga teacher created a syllabus for her advanced class.	The yoga studio provided syllabuses outlining the class structures.	The yoga studio referenced the syllabi to ensure consistency.
The art course syllabus detailed the different painting techniques.	The art school distributed syllabuses for each course.	The art school kept digital syllabi for all courses.
The writing workshop syllabus listed the exercises to be completed.	The writing center provided syllabuses for each workshop.	The writing center reviewed the syllabi to ensure effectiveness.
The language school’s syllabus outlined the grammar points to be learned.	The language school provided syllabuses for each language level.	The language school maintained syllabi for all courses.
The fitness class syllabus detailed the exercises for each session.	The gym provided syllabuses for each fitness class.	The gym archived the syllabi for future use.
The online course syllabus included a schedule of live sessions.	The online platform made syllabuses available for all courses.	The online platform reviewed the syllabi to ensure quality.
The seminar syllabus listed the topics to be discussed.	The organizers distributed syllabuses for each seminar session.	The organizers compiled the syllabi for future reference.
The workshop syllabus included a list of materials needed.	The workshop leaders provided syllabuses for each session.	The workshop leaders kept the syllabi in a digital format.
The training program’s syllabus detailed the modules to be covered.	The training organization provided syllabuses for all of its programs.	The training organization reviewed the syllabi to improve future programs.
The conference syllabus outlined the speakers and their topics.	The conference organizers distributed syllabuses to all attendees.	The conference committee archived the syllabi for future conferences.
The self-study syllabus included a list of resources.	She collected syllabuses from various online courses to decide which to take.	She compared the syllabi to determine the best course for her needs.

Comparative Context

The following table shows examples in a comparative context.

Singular (Syllabus)	Plural (Syllabuses)	Plural (Syllabi)
This syllabus is more detailed than the one I had last year.	These syllabuses are more comprehensive than those from other universities.	These syllabi are older than the ones currently in use.
The new syllabus includes updated readings.	The updated syllabuses reflect the latest research in the field.	The revised syllabi were designed to be more student-friendly.
That syllabus is easier to understand than the previous version.	These syllabuses are more organized than the ones we used before.	These syllabi are more detailed compared to the older versions.
This syllabus is better structured than the one from the other course.	These syllabuses are more aligned with the learning objectives.	These syllabi offer a better overview of the course content.
The online syllabus is easier to access than the printed version.	The online syllabuses are more interactive and engaging.	The digital syllabi are easier to update and distribute.
The graduate syllabus is more rigorous than the undergraduate one.	The graduate syllabuses are more demanding and in-depth.	The graduate syllabi require a higher level of critical thinking.
The international syllabus is more diverse in its content.	The international syllabuses are designed to be culturally sensitive.	The international syllabi offer a broader perspective on the subject.
The updated syllabus includes new assessment methods.	The updated syllabuses provide clearer guidelines for assignments.	The revised syllabi incorporate feedback from previous students.
The advanced syllabus covers more complex topics.	The advanced syllabuses require a deeper understanding of the concepts.	The advanced syllabi are designed for students with prior knowledge.
This syllabus is more comprehensive than the one from the community college.	These syllabuses are more detailed than those from the vocational school.	These syllabi offer a more thorough preparation for professional practice.
The new syllabus has a more student-friendly format.	The new syllabuses are designed to be more accessible and engaging.	The updated syllabi incorporate interactive elements and multimedia resources.
The syllabus for this course is more flexible than others.	The syllabuses for these courses are designed to adapt to student needs.	The syllabi allow for more student-led discussions and projects.
That syllabus is less clear than I would have liked.	Those syllabuses are not as well-organized as these.	Those syllabi lack the detail found in these.
This syllabus is shorter than expected.	These syllabuses are briefer compared to the others.	These syllabi offer a more concise overview of the material.
The syllabus here is less structured compared to the other institution.	The syllabuses here are less formal compared to those from other universities.	The syllabi here offer a less rigid structure compared to the standardized ones.
The syllabus now is more detailed than the previous one.	The syllabuses now are more informative than before.	The syllabi now provide more clarity than the outdated versions.
This syllabus is considered superior to its predecessors.	These syllabuses are regarded as more effective than the earlier editions.	These syllabi are seen as a significant improvement over previous iterations.
This syllabus provides a more comprehensive overview.	These syllabuses offer a broader understanding of the subject matter.	These syllabi present a more thorough exploration of the topics.
The updated syllabus is much more user-friendly.	The updated syllabuses are significantly easier to navigate.	The revised syllabi are designed for better student comprehension.
The syllabus this year includes more interactive elements.	The syllabuses this year are designed to be more engaging.	The syllabi now incorporate multimedia resources and collaborative activities.

Usage Rules and Guidelines

While both “syllabuses” and “syllabi” are acceptable plural forms, it’s important to understand the nuances of their usage to make informed choices in your writing and speech. Here are some general guidelines:

• Formality: “Syllabi” is generally considered more formal than “syllabuses.” Use “syllabi” in academic papers, formal reports, or when addressing a highly educated audience.
• Context: In general writing or informal settings, “syllabuses” is the preferred and more common choice.
• Consistency: Regardless of which plural form you choose, maintain consistency throughout your document or presentation. Avoid switching between “syllabuses” and “syllabi” unless there is a specific reason to do so.
• Audience: Consider your audience when selecting the appropriate plural form. If you are unsure, “syllabuses” is generally a safe and widely accepted option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When using “syllabus,” there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect pluralization: Avoid using non-standard plural forms such as “syllabusses” or “syllabae.” Stick to the accepted forms: “syllabuses” and “syllabi.”
• Inconsistency: As mentioned earlier, avoid switching between “syllabuses” and “syllabi” within the same document or presentation. Choose one form and use it consistently.
• Misunderstanding formality: Using “syllabi” in a casual conversation might sound overly pretentious. Conversely, using “syllabuses” in a highly formal academic paper might seem too informal.

Here’s a table summarizing common mistakes and their corrections:

Incorrect	Correct	Explanation
The professor handed out the syllabusses.	The professor handed out the syllabuses.	“Syllabusses” is not a recognized plural form.
The university has several syllabae.	The university has several syllabuses.	“Syllabae” is not a recognized plural form.
We reviewed the syllabus for all courses, and the syllabi were very helpful.	We reviewed the syllabuses for all courses, and the syllabuses were very helpful.	Maintain consistency in the plural form used.
The syllabi was very detailed.	The syllabus was very detailed.	“Syllabi” is plural; use “syllabus” for singular.

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding of the pluralization of “syllabus” with these practice exercises:

Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks

Fill in the blanks with the correct plural form of “syllabus” (“syllabuses” or “syllabi”).

Question	Answer
1. The professor distributed the ________ on the first day of class.	syllabuses
2. The university archives contain a collection of old ________.	syllabi
3. The department requires all instructors to submit their ________ before the semester begins.	syllabuses
4. The committee reviewed the ________ to ensure consistency across all courses.	syllabi
5. The students found the ________ helpful in organizing their studies.	syllabuses
6. The dean requested copies of all course ________ for accreditation purposes.	syllabi
7. The revised ________ were distributed to all students.	syllabuses
8. The faculty senate discussed the standardization of ________ across departments.	syllabi
9. The ________ for the online courses were particularly detailed.	syllabuses
10. The analysis of ________ revealed a trend towards more student-centered learning.	syllabi

Exercise 2: Multiple Choice

Choose the correct plural form of “syllabus” in each sentence.

Question	Options	Answer
1. The professor handed out the ________ on the first day.	a) syllabus b) syllabuses c) syllabi d) syllabuss	b) syllabuses
2. The library has a collection of old course ________.	a) syllabus b) syllabuss c) syllabi d) syllabuses	c) syllabi
3. All instructors must submit their ________ before the semester starts.	a) syllabus b) syllabuss c) syllabi d) syllabuses	d) syllabuses
4. The committee reviewed the course ________ to ensure they met the standards.	a) syllabus b) syllabuss c) syllabi d) syllabuses	c) syllabi
5. The students found the ________ very helpful for planning their studies.	a) syllabus b) syllabuss c) syllabi d) syllabuses	d) syllabuses
6. The university keeps records of all past ________.	a) syllabus b) syllabuss c) syllabi d) syllabuses	c) syllabi
7. The updated ________ were distributed to all students.	a) syllabus b) syllabuss c) syllabi d) syllabuses	d) syllabuses
8. The faculty discussed the ________ during the meeting.	a) syllabus b) syllabuss c) syllabi d) syllabuses	c) syllabi
9. The online ________ were very detailed.	a) syllabus b) syllabuss c) syllabi d) syllabuses	d) syllabuses
10. An analysis of the ________ showed a trend.	a) syllabus b) syllabuss c) syllabi d) syllabuses	c) syllabi

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, consider these additional points:

• Historical usage: Explore how the usage of “syllabi” vs. “syllabuses” has changed over time. Research older academic texts to see which form was more prevalent in the past.
• Regional variations: Investigate whether there are regional preferences for one plural form over the other. Is “syllabi” more common in certain countries or regions?
• Linguistic analysis: Analyze the broader phenomenon of English adapting foreign words and the various ways in which plural forms are anglicized.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about the plural of “syllabus”:

1. Is “syllabuses” or “syllabi” more correct?

   Both “syllabuses” and “syllabi” are grammatically correct. “Syllabuses” is generally preferred in modern English due to its simplicity and adherence to standard English pluralization rules. “Syllabi” is considered more formal and less common.

2. When should I use “syllabi”?

   Use “syllabi” in formal writing, academic papers, or when addressing a highly educated audience. However, “syllabuses” is generally acceptable in most contexts.

3. Why does “syllabus” have two plural forms?

   The dual plural forms stem from the word’s Latin origin. Latin nouns ending in “-us” often form their plural by changing the “-us” to “-i.” However, English also has a tendency to anglicize foreign words, leading to the acceptance of both the original foreign plural and an English-derived plural formed by adding “-es.”

4. Is it ever wrong to use “syllabuses”?

   In almost all contexts, using “syllabuses” is acceptable. However, in very formal academic writing, some may prefer “syllabi,” but this is becoming increasingly rare.

5. Should I use “syllabuses” or “syllabi” in my college application essay?

   In a college application essay, “syllabuses” is the safer and more appropriate choice. It is less formal and more widely understood.

6. What is the origin of the word “syllabus”?

   The word “syllabus” comes from Neo-Latin. One theory suggests it originated from a misreading of the Greek word “sittybas,” which referred to labels or tables of contents.

7. How can I remember the correct plural forms?

   Remember that “syllabuses” follows the standard English pluralization rule of adding “-es.” “Syllabi” is the Latin-derived plural, similar to “alumni” (from “alumnus”).

8. Is there a difference in meaning between “syllabuses” and “syllabi”?

   No, there is no difference in meaning between “syllabuses” and “syllabi.” They both refer to multiple syllabi. The difference lies in formality and frequency of use.

Conclusion

Understanding the pluralization of nouns, especially those with foreign origins, is crucial for effective communication. While “syllabus” presents a unique case with two accepted plural forms, “syllabuses” and “syllabi,” knowing the nuances of their usage allows you to make informed choices in your writing and speech.

Remember that “syllabuses” is generally preferred in modern English due to its simplicity and adherence to standard English pluralization rules, while “syllabi” is considered more formal. By practicing the examples and exercises provided in this guide, you can confidently use the correct plural form of “syllabus” in any context.

The key takeaway is that both forms are correct, but context matters. Choose the form that best suits your audience and the level of formality required.

With this knowledge, you can avoid common mistakes and enhance the clarity and accuracy of your communication. Continue to practice and expand your understanding of English grammar to become a more proficient and confident language user.