Appendices vs. Appendixes: Clarifying Usage and Meaning in Writing

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering whether to use “appendices” vs “appendixes,” you’re not alone. These two words can be confusing, especially since they both refer to the plural of “appendix,” yet they’re used in different contexts. While “appendices” is the more widely accepted plural form in most academic and formal writing, “appendixes” has its place in more specialized contexts, like anatomy. This blog post aims to clear up the confusion by providing a comprehensive guide on when and how to use “appendices” vs. “appendixes.”

Understanding the difference between these terms is essential for anyone who wants to communicate with precision in writing. Whether you’re drafting a research paper, writing a report, or discussing the human body, knowing when to use each form can elevate your writing and ensure accuracy. In this article, we’ll dive into the origins of both terms, their usage, and offer plenty of real-world examples. By the end, you’ll have a solid understanding of when to choose “appendices” and when “appendixes” is the correct option.

What Do “Appendices” and “Appendixes” Mean?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty details of usage, let’s start with a simple definition of each term.

• Appendices: The plural form of “appendix” that is most commonly used in academic writing, reports, books, and documents to refer to additional material added at the end of a text. This can include extra data, supplementary information, or clarifying details that support the main body of the work.
• Appendixes: Another valid plural form of “appendix,” but it tends to be used more in specific contexts like anatomy or specialized fields, including medicine.

Both words refer to multiple appendices, but context plays a crucial role in determining which one to use. For example, you’d typically encounter “appendices” in the context of a research paper, while “appendixes” may be more common in discussions about the human appendix or anatomical structures.

The Singular of “Appendices” or “Appendixes”

• Appendix: The singular term refers to an additional section or material added to a document, book, or written work. It can also refer to a small organ in the body, specifically the vermiform appendix, which is part of the human digestive system.

This singular form is central to understanding the plural forms. When discussing academic papers or texts, you might say, “The appendix at the end of the book contains additional charts.” When discussing the human body, you might say, “The appendix is often removed due to medical reasons.”

The pluralization of “appendix” into both “appendices” and “appendixes” comes down to language evolution, as we’ll explore next.

Origins of the Word ‘Appendix’

• In literature: The concept of an appendix has been around since the 17th century. It referred to supplementary material added to the end of a book or document to provide additional details, explanations, or clarifications.
• In anatomy: The anatomical use of the term “appendix” dates back to the early 19th century. In this context, it refers to a small, finger-like projection attached to the large intestine, which has long been the subject of medical interest due to its mysterious function.

Both usages of “appendix” stem from the idea of something “added” or “attached” to a larger body of work—whether a book or the human digestive system.

Why Both “Appendices” and “Appendixes” Are the Plurals of ‘Appendix’

• Appendices: This form follows the typical Latin pluralization rule (in which words ending in -ix change to -ices in the plural form). It’s primarily used in formal, academic, and literary writing.
• Appendixes: This form is a more Anglicized version, often used in more casual or technical contexts, such as in anatomical or medical discussions. It is less formal but still grammatically correct.

Over time, both forms became accepted in different contexts, which is why you may encounter both in written works. It’s important to choose the one that aligns with your subject matter to avoid sounding out of place or incorrect.

“Appendices” vs. “Appendixes”: Where to Use Which One?

Understanding when to use “appendices” vs. “appendixes” comes down to context. Here’s a breakdown of where to use each:

• Appendices:
  • Academic Writing: When writing research papers, reports, or books, use “appendices” to refer to supplementary materials that follow the main content.
  • Formal Documents: In professional settings, appendices typically refer to supporting information, such as data sets, charts, or lists.
  • Examples:
    • “The appendices of the study contain detailed survey data.”
    • “Please refer to the appendices for additional resources.”
• Appendixes:
  • Anatomical and Medical Writing: The plural form “appendixes” is often used when referring to the appendix in biological terms. It’s more common in the context of the human body, particularly in medical research or anatomy textbooks.
  • Informal or Technical Writing: “Appendixes” may also appear in less formal or more technical contexts, though it’s less frequently used than “appendices.”
  • Examples:
    • “The appendixes of the human digestive system include the appendix of the colon.”
    • “Surgical removal of the appendixes is a common procedure.”

In short, use “appendices” for formal documents and academic writing, while “appendixes” is reserved for discussions of anatomy or specialized technical topics.

Examples in Context

Appendix (Singular)

The word “appendix” in its singular form is straightforward. It refers to a single supplementary section of a book or a body organ.

Example in context:
“The appendix in the back of the textbook includes the full list of references used throughout the chapters.”

In this case, “appendix” refers to the additional material found at the end of the book, which helps clarify or provide additional details not included in the main chapters.

Appendices (Plural in Reference to a Book or Document)

When referring to multiple supplementary sections in a document or report, “appendices” is the correct plural form.

Example in context:
“The appendices at the end of the research paper provide a breakdown of the survey results, raw data, and additional charts.”

Here, “appendices” refers to multiple sections or pieces of supporting material that follow the main text.

Appendices (Plural in Reference to Anatomy)

In medical or anatomical contexts, “appendices” is the term used to refer to more than one of these small structures found in the human body.

Example in context:
“The doctor explained that while the appendices in the digestive system are small, they play an important role in our immune system.”

In this case, “appendices” refers to multiple small organs or similar structures that might exist in different parts of the body.

A Final Look at “Appendices” or “Appendixes”

By now, you should have a solid understanding of the difference between “appendices” and “appendixes” and when to use each form. To recap:

• Appendices: Use this form for academic, formal, and literary contexts, particularly when referring to supplementary material in documents, books, or research papers.
• Appendixes: This form is typically used in anatomical or medical contexts when referring to the organ or other technical topics.

Remember, the key to choosing the correct plural form is context. Both “appendices” and “appendixes” are grammatically correct, but their usage depends on whether you’re discussing a book or a body part!

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between “appendices” and “appendixes” will enhance your writing and communication skills. By knowing when to use each form, you can communicate with greater clarity and precision, whether you’re working on an academic paper, a medical report, or even just discussing human anatomy.

Next time you’re faced with the decision, take a moment to think about the context, and you’ll be able to choose the correct plural form every time.

FAQs

What is the plural of appendix?
The plural forms of “appendix” are “appendices” and “appendixes,” depending on the context.

Is “appendices” always correct to use?
“Appendices” is preferred in academic and formal writing, particularly for supplementary materials in documents or books.

Can “appendixes” be used in academic writing?
While less common, “appendixes” can be used in academic writing, especially when referring to anatomical or technical subjects.

Which one is used in medical terminology?
“Appendixes” is more commonly used in medical contexts, especially when discussing the organ or related structures.