“Alumni” is a Latin fella which traditionally is the plural form of “alumnus”. It saves graduates from using the word alma mater. It paints a picture of a reunion hall, with laughter echoing as old friends catch up under the faded banners of their shared history.
But here’s the plot twist: “alumni” can also apply to a single person, regardless of gender. It has the ability to blend into a crowd of its former classmates. It’s perfectly acceptable to say, “She’s an alumni of MIT,” even if she’s the lone wolf in the room.
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Now, let’s introduce the “alumnus” and “alumna” duo.
These Latin siblings represent the singular forms, with “alumnus” being the dude and “alumna” the lady. Imagine them standing proudly on a graduation stage, diplomas clutched in sweaty palms, ready to conquer the world, one step at a time.
However, these terms can feel a bit old-fashioned and, frankly, a tad gendered. In today’s diverse world, “alumni” as a singular and/or gender-neutral option is gaining more traction. It’s like a comfortable pair of jeans in the land of formal trousers.
So, Which One Do You Choose?
Is “alumni” singular or plural? Of course, it is the plural form of “alumnus” but can also be used as singular, depending on the context.
Here’s a breakdown:
For Formal Settings: If you’re writing for a university newsletter or addressing a group of alumni in a formal setting, sticking with “alumni” is a safe bet. It’s the classic choice, and it won’t raise any eyebrows.
For Informal Settings: If you’re chatting with friends about your alma mater or writing a casual blog post, “alum” and “alums” can be a fun and inclusive way to go.
For Gender-Specific Situations: If you’re specifically referring to a group of female graduates, “alumnae” is the most accurate option.
Just remember, the most important thing is to be clear and respectful, whether you’re addressing a room full of proud graduates or chatting with a fellow alum.
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Final Thoughts
For a fact, you can now differentiate between “alumnus” and “alumni”, “alumna” and “alumnae” As a reminder, “alumnus” and “alumna” are gender-based singulars, while “alumni” and “alumnae” are the plural forms of each.
It’s now time to use your newfound knowledge in communicating with your audience. And remember, whether you say “alumni,” “alums,” or even “those wacky graduates from St. Patrick,” the important thing is to celebrate the shared experience of belonging to a community.