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Plural of Energy
The Quick Answer
"Energy" is a mass noun. It has no plural form. Be aware, however, that as well as meaning "power" in a general sense, the word "energy" can also relate to different types of power (e.g., a person's physical and mental powers). In such a context, the plural "energies" can be used.The Plural of Energy
"Energy" is a mass noun. It has no plural form.- The Sun is the source of energy for life on Earth.
- I merely took the energy it takes to pout and wrote some blues. (Duke Ellington)
"Energies" Is Possible but Rare
When "energy" relates to different types of power (e.g., a person's physical and mental powers), the plural form "energies" can be used.- The group functions well because it takes its motivation from different energies.
- Training gives us an outlet for suppressed energies created by stress and thus tones the spirit just as exercise conditions the body.
(Actor Arnold Schwarzenegger)
Are You Good at Plurals?
Here's a quick test.The Standard Rules for Forming the Plurals
The table below shows the standard rules for forming the plurals of nouns in English.Type | Example of Type | Forming the Plural | Plural |
---|---|---|---|
Most Nouns | ![]() ![]() |
add s | ![]() ![]() |
Noun Ending s, sh, ch, x or z | ![]() ![]() |
add es | ![]() ![]() |
Nouns ending [consonant] o | ![]() ![]() ![]() |
add either s or es (There are no rules for this - you have to know.) |
![]() ![]() ![]() |
Nouns ending [vowel] o | ![]() ![]() |
add s | ![]() ![]() |
Nouns ending [consonant] y | ![]() ![]() ![]() |
change the y to an i and add es | ![]() ![]() ![]() |
Nouns ending [vowel] y | ![]() ![]() ![]() |
add s | ![]() ![]() |
Mass nouns | ![]() ![]() |
some nouns do not have a plural form |
![]() ![]() |
Nouns ending f or fe | ![]() ![]() |
ves and/or s (There are no rules - you have to know.) |
![]() ![]() |
Exceptions | ![]() ![]() |
some nouns undergo a vowel or letters change | ![]() ![]() |
More exceptions | ![]() ![]() |
some nouns do not change at all | ![]() ![]() |
Why Is There Confusion over the Plural of Energy?
Confusion arises because, in its most common meaning, "energy" is a mass noun. A mass noun is a noun without a plural form. They refer to items that can't be counted (e.g., music, milk, chalk).Ready for the Test?
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