What’s the Plural of Calf?
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What is the plural form of calf? Should it be calves or calfs?
The plural of calf is calves
Why Is There Confusion Over The Plural Of Calf?
There’s confusion because “calf” has two plural forms – “calves” and “calfs.” “
Calves” is the more common one. It follows the rule of adding “-es” to words ending in “-f.”
Some examples are:
- One calf, two calves
- The farmer had several calves
“Calfs” is less common but also considered correct. It treats “calf” like words that just add “-s.” Examples:
- Three small calfs were born
- A herd of calfs in a field
Most experts say “calves” is the preferred plural form. But “calfs” does exist too. This causes the confusion.
Other plurals:
Is Calf A Countable Or Uncountable Noun?
Yes, calf is a countable noun. That means calves can be counted and take on plurals.
For example:
- 10 calves on a farm
- Many calves were born
Words like “many” and “few” also show calf is countable.
The plural “calves” shows calf refers to separate animals.
Uncountable nouns like “water” don’t have plurals.
When Do You Use Each Plural?
“Calves” is the more common plural form. It’s what dictionaries and experts recommend.
“Calfs” works too but some see it as informal.
Definition Of Calf
Its current meanings include:
- A young cow or bull
- The fleshy back portion of the human leg below the knee
Origin of the Word “Calf”
The word calf originally comes from Old Norse “kálfr” meaning the young of an animal
Wrapping it Up
To sum up – both plurals exist. But “calves” is overwhelmingly more popular. The less common “calfs” causes the confusion.
