English UsageGrammar guide

Plural of Fungus

Cambridge records both “fungi” and “funguses” as plurals of “fungus.” The classical plural is therefore not the only accepted English plural.

Quick answer

Both “fungi” and “funguses” are accepted plurals of “fungus.”

Key details

Confusion Familycompeting plural forms
Rule Familynumber and classical plurals
Termsfungus, fungi, funguses
Variant ScopeBoth plural forms are dictionary-recorded; context, field, or house style may influence preference.

Further guidance

Core difference

Both “fungi” and “funguses” are accepted plural forms.

Fast Test

Use the plural expected by your field or house style and keep the choice consistent.

Usage Boundary

Do not mark “funguses” wrong merely because “fungi” is the classical plural.

Sources and evidence

Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.

  1. Fungus — Cambridge Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge University Press · Learner-dictionary evidence recording both fungi and funguses as plurals of fungus.

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