In Spanish, making nouns plural is straightforward but depends on the ending of the singular form. Most nouns follow regular patterns, while some have exceptions.
- For nouns ending in a vowel, add -s (libro → libros).
- For nouns ending in a consonant, add -es (mujer → mujeres).
- For nouns ending in -z, change -z to -c and add -es (luz → luces).
'papel' becomes 'papeles' in plural.
Correct plurals include 'perros', 'ciudades', and 'luces'.
Regular Plural Rules
| Singular Ending | Plural Ending | Example Sing. | Example Plur. |
|---|---|---|---|
| -a, -e, -i, -o, -u (vowel) | -s | chico | chicos |
| -r, -l, -n, -d, -j (consonant) | -es | actor | actores |
- Most Spanish nouns end in a vowel and simply add -s.
- Consonant-ending nouns require -es, making them easier to pronounce in plural.
Add '-s' for nouns ending in a vowel.
You add '-es' for nouns ending in a consonant.
Nouns Ending in -z
For nouns that end in -z, drop the "z" and add -ces for the plural.
- Singular: lápiz, luz, pez
- Plural: lápices, luces, peces
For -z endings, change -z to -c and add -es.
Correct forms are 'lápices', 'luces', 'peces'.
The plural of 'voz' is 'voces'.
Plural for Compound Nouns
In compound nouns, only the main noun changes to plural.
- Singular: el paraguas (umbrella)
- Plural: los paraguas (umbrellas)
'Paraguas' remains the same in plural.
Exceptions and Special Cases
- Some nouns are invariable (e.g., el lunes → los lunes).
- Foreign words may just add -s.
Conclusion
Spanish noun plurals follow logical rules based on endings, with a few important exceptions.
- Add -s after vowels, -es after consonants.
- Change -z to -ces for plural.
- Compound nouns often keep some parts unchanged.