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AMA Manual of Style Committee

Contents

Latin and Greek vs English

Chapter:
Plurals
Author(s):

Brenda Gregoline

There is a trend toward using English plurals rather than the traditional Latin or Greek. However, in most cases the latest edition of Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary or Dorland's or Stedman's medical dictionary should be followed. Consistency within a manuscript is key.

Singular

Preferred Plural

alga

algae

amoeba

amoebas

appendix

appendixes or appendices [consult dictionary for specific usage]

cannula

cannulas

condyloma acuminatum

condylomata accuminata [with 2-word Latin plurals, both parts become plural]

cranium

crania

fistula

fistulas

formula

formulas

genus

genera

index

indices or indexes [consult dictionary for specific usage]

maxilla

maxillas

orbit

orbits

rhytid

rhytids

sequela

sequelae

vertebra

vertebrae