Updated on March 13, 2025
by PushtoLearn
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Plural of Axis

The plural of axis is axes. Many English learners find words ending in -is tricky because their plural forms don’t just add -s or -es. Axis follows a special rule where -is changes to -es with an extra -x sound.

TLDR

Singular and Plural Forms

Singular

Plural

axis

axes

The plural axes is pronounced /ˈæk.siːz/ (AK-seez), not like the plural of "axe" (which is pronounced /æksɪz/).

Confusing Plural Forms Exercise

This exercise focuses on confusing plural forms, including Axis.

Illustration of Plural of Axis

How to Use "Axis" in Sentences

Singular Example:

✅ The Earth rotates on its axis.
✅ The graph has an x-axis and a y-axis.

Plural Example:

✅ The coordinate plane has two axes.
✅ Different axes of symmetry exist in geometry.

Common Mistakes

❌ "Axises" (Incorrect) – The correct plural is axes.
❌ "One axe, two axes (same as the tool)" – Be careful! The plural of "axe" (the cutting tool) is also axes, but it has a different pronunciation.

When to Use "Axis"

  1. In Mathematics – "The x-axis and y-axis intersect at zero."

  2. In Geography – "The Earth spins on its axis."

  3. In Science – "The microscope’s axes allow movement in different directions."

  4. In Politics – "Several countries formed an axis during the war."

FAQs

What is the plural form of axis?

The plural of axis is axes.

How do you pronounce "axes" (plural of axis)?

It is pronounced /ˈæk.siːz/ (AK-seez).

Do we say "this axis is" or "these axis are"?

  • Singular: "This axis is important."

  • Plural: "These axes are essential."

What is the difference between "axes" (plural of axis) and "axes" (plural of axe)?

  • Axes (of axis) → /ˈæk.siːz/ (AK-seez)

  • Axes (of axe, the tool) → /æksɪz/ (AK-siz)

Can you use "axes" in a sentence?

Sure! "The scientist measured the movement along different axes."

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