Phenomenon vs Phenomena

The two words or nouns “phenomenon” and “phenomena” frequently confuse people. Sometimes they are used incorrectly by people who think they can be used interchangeably. However, this is not true, and these two words or nouns cannot be used interchangeably. They are singular and plural forms of the word “phenomenon.” “Phenomenon” is the singular form and “phenomena” is the plural form.

We know very well that the plural forms and singular forms are supposed to be used appropriately with a singular object and plural objects respectively.

Dictionary meaning of “phenomenon”

“Phenomenon” means “a fact, an occurrence or a circumstance observable by the senses.”

An extraordinary, impressive, significant, unusual, unaccountable occurrence or fact.

An exceptional or remarkable person; wonder; prodigy.

“Phenomenon” also means “philosophy.”

An appearance.

Kantianism, a thing which is constructed or made up by mind.

Usages

“Phenomenon” has two plurals, though we are specifically talking about the plural “phenomena” in this article. Yet one should know that the other plural for “phenomenon” is “phenomenons.”

This plural form is used mainly when someone is doing a non-scientific writing. In non-scientific references, the plural “phenomenons” is used to indicate things which are extraordinary, occurrences which are extraordinary, or people who are extraordinary or a marvel. For example,

The Beatles were phenomenons in the 1960s.

The main reference here is more towards people than any other facts or philosophy or occurrences.

Apart from the English language usage, there are considered to be four different types of phenomena: scientific phenomena, mechanical phenomena, gem phenomena, popular phenomena, and social or group phenomena.

Scientific phenomena

A scientific phenomenon is any occurrence or fact or event which can be observed and compiled as data. It might be done with or without the help of instruments.

Mechanical phenomena

A mechanical phenomenon refers to any physical phenomenon which is related to the motion of objects or the equilibrium of objects.

Gem Phenomena

A gem phenomenon refers to the unusual optical or visual color, iridescence, labradorescene, asterism, luster, etc. of a gem.

Popular phenomena

It refers to an unusual event.

Group phenomena

A group phenomenon refers to the behavior of organisms in a particular group which is very different from their behavior as an individual.

Social phenomena

It refers to events and behavior or attitude of people in a group. The attitude might be adopted by people outside the group or may be considered not fit for society.
“Phenomenas” is used more commonly than “phenomenons.” It is used for extraordinary people as well as for unusual, extraordinary facts, and philosophies. It is also used in scientific writings or in compilations of some extraordinary event. For example, The scientists observe the different phenomena of nature.

Summary:

“Phenomenon” is the singular form while “phenomena” is the plural form of the word “phenomenon.”

Sharing is caring!