Is it Min or Mins in the Plural?

Rule for Abbreviating "Minute"

The correct plural abbreviation for "minute" is "min"—without an "s." This is because abbreviations, especially in formal writing, typically do not change between singular and plural forms.

Examples:

• Singular: It took 1 min to finish the task.

• Plural: It took 5 min to walk there.

Why Not Use "Mins"?

Although "mins" is sometimes seen in informal or casual writing, it's not standard or widely accepted. "Min" remains the preferred and correct abbreviation for both singular and plural uses.

Examples in Sentences:

• I need 10 min to get ready.

• The meeting will start in 15 min.

Common Errors

1. Adding an "s" to abbreviations:

• Incorrect: The movie will start in 5 mins.

• Correct: The movie will start in 5 min.

2. Mixing singular and plural forms:

• Incorrect: The break is 1 mins long.

• Correct: The break is 1 min long.

Everyday Use

In everyday language, especially when writing casually or texting, some people do use "mins" to abbreviate the plural of minutes. However, in formal writing, it’s best to stick to "min" for both singular and plural.

FAQ

Is "mins" a correct abbreviation?

Technically, no. "Mins" is not a standard abbreviation. The correct abbreviation for both singular and plural is "min."

Should I use "min" for 1 minute and "mins" for more than 1 minute?

No, use "min" for both 1 minute and multiple minutes.

Is "min" used in formal writing?

Yes, "min" is widely accepted and used in formal writing for both singular and plural minutes.

Can I use "mins" in casual writing?

While you might see "mins" in casual texts or social media, it’s not considered grammatically correct, especially in formal contexts.

What about other time abbreviations?

Similar rules apply for other time abbreviations:

• Hour → "h" (both singular and plural)