Monkeys vs Monkies

Monkeys is correct because there's an "e" before the "y." If it followed the rule, it would actually be "monkeies," not "monkies"--and that looks even more confusing to pronounce. Other examples that fit this rule are "key," "pulley," and "attorney."

Explanation

"Monkeys" is the correct plural form of the word "monkey." In English, when a noun ends in a vowel followed by a "y" (like "monkey"), the plural is typically formed by simply adding an "s" at the end.

✔️ Correct: We saw several monkeys at the zoo.

❌ Incorrect: We saw several monkies at the zoo.

Why "Monkeys" Is Correct

Rule for Pluralization: For nouns ending in a vowel plus "y," you add "s" to form the plural.

Examples:

➡️ Key → Keys

➡️ Toy → Toys

➡️ Monkey → Monkeys

When to Change "y" to "ies": For nouns that end in a consonant followed by "y," the "y" is changed to "ies" to form the plural.

Examples:

➡️ City → Cities

➡️ Puppy → Puppies

➡️ Story → Stories

Since "monkey" ends with a vowel ("e") plus "y," the plural is formed by simply adding "s," resulting in "monkeys."

Common Errors

Using "Monkies" Instead of "Monkeys":

❌ Incorrect: The jungle is full of monkies.

✔️ Correct: The jungle is full of monkeys.

Applying the Wrong Pluralization Rule:

Some learners mistakenly apply the "ies" rule to words ending in a vowel + "y," which is not correct.

FAQ

Why isn’t "monkies" correct?

"Monkies" is incorrect because the plural of "monkey" follows the rule for nouns ending in a vowel + "y," where you simply add "s" to form the plural, resulting in "monkeys."

Are there any exceptions to this pluralization rule?

For nouns ending in a consonant + "y," the plural is formed by changing the "y" to "ies" (e.g., "city" → "cities"), but there are no exceptions for nouns like "monkey."

Can "monkies" be considered a variant spelling?

No, "monkies" is not a recognized or correct variant spelling in standard English.

How do I know when to add "s" or "ies" to make a plural?

If the noun ends in a vowel + "y," just add "s" (e.g., "monkey" → "monkeys"). If it ends in a consonant + "y," change the "y" to "ies" (e.g., "city" → "cities").

Is the rule for pluralizing "monkey" the same in British and American English?

Yes, the rule is the same in both British and American English. "Monkeys" is correct in both dialects.

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