Octopi vs. Octopuses

How simple is it to identify the correct form of the plural of a word, in a rich vocabulary where there are plenty of rules regarding word formation, plural formation etc.? To get more specific, when referring to more than one "octopus", which is the form you should use for this noun - "octopi" or "octopuses"?

If you are confused whether both forms are or not correct because you saw both spellings in various publications, then this article will help you sort things out really quickly and simply.

Octopi vs. Octopuses

According to the classical rule of creating plural forms of words in English, you should simply add an "s" to the ending of the word. An additional rule says that if the word ends in "s" already, then you should add an "-es" to form plural. That is exactly how you get "octopuses" from "octopus". This is also the only correct form.

"Octopi" is mentioned by some dictionaries as an acceptable plural form of "octopus" because several words originating from Latin end in "i" in their plural form. Even so, "octopi" is a misspelling based on a misconception. More exactly, the word "octopus", which defines a sea creature with eight long arms, doesn't even originate from Latin, but from Greek. Therefore, "octopi" is simply a misspelled form for the plural of "octopus".

When do we use "octopi"?

You should never use "octopi", especially in an official communication. This is only a misspelling. Plus, it is very rarely used and almost never preferred by specialists, natives or usual English speakers. You can definitely take this word out of your vocabulary.

When do we use "octopuses"?

"Octopuses" is the correct plural form of the noun "octopus", which is formed following the general rule for plural formation. You should always and only use this spelling when referring to more than one octopus.

Conclusion

The conclusion is simple and easy to remember - follow the general rule of plural formation to remember the correct spelling of the plural form of "octopus". "Octopi" is always a wrong, misspelled form and "octopuses" is the correct version you should keep in your vocabulary.