Mangoes or Mangos?
The plural form of mango is a topic of debate among linguists and fruit enthusiasts. Both "mangoes" and "mangos" are widely used and accepted, but which one is correct?
Historical Context
The word "mango" originated from the Malayalam language, in which the fruit is called "manga." The British colonial era introduced the fruit to the Western world, and the spelling "mango" became the standard.
Plural Form: Mangoes or Mangos?
In English, the plural form of a noun is typically formed by adding -s or -es to the singular form. In the case of mango, both "mangoes" and "mangos" are used as plural forms.
- "Mangoes" is the more traditional and widely accepted plural form, especially in British English.
- "Mangos" is commonly used in American English and is also accepted by many dictionaries.
Both forms are acceptable, and the choice between them often depends on regional preferences or personal taste.
Style Guides and Dictionaries
Major style guides and dictionaries provide guidance on the plural form of mango:
- The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) lists both "mangoes" and "mangos" as acceptable plural forms.
- The Merriam-Webster Dictionary prefers "mangos" but also lists "mangoes" as an acceptable variant.
- The Chicago Manual of Style recommends "mangoes" as the plural form.
- The AP Stylebook suggests using "mangos" as the plural form.
Conclusion: Both Are Correct!
In conclusion, both "mangoes" and "mangos" are correct plural forms of the word "mango." While "mangoes" is more traditional and widely accepted, "mangos" is also commonly used and accepted by many dictionaries. Ultimately, the choice between the two forms depends on personal preference, regional dialect, or style guide recommendations.
So, the next time you're enjoying a delicious mango or mangos (or mangoes!), remember that both plural forms are acceptable!
Call to Action
Which plural form do you prefer: "mangoes" or "mangos"? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
FAQ Section:
What is the origin of the word "mango"?
+The word "mango" originated from the Malayalam language, in which the fruit is called "manga."
Is "mangoes" or "mangos" the more commonly used plural form?
+Both "mangoes" and "mangos" are widely used, but "mangoes" is more traditional and widely accepted, especially in British English.
Do style guides and dictionaries agree on the plural form of "mango"?
+No, style guides and dictionaries have different recommendations, with some preferring "mangoes" and others preferring "mangos."