Alumnus vs. Alumni vs. Alumna vs. Alumnae
Traditionally, “alumnus” is singular and “alumni” is its plural; “alumna” is a singular woman and “alumnae” its plural. Cambridge also notes that “alumni” is often used for mixed-gender groups, so audience and institutional style can affect the preferred form.
Use “alumnus” for one man, “alumna” for one woman, “alumni” for multiple alumni (often including mixed groups), and “alumnae” for multiple women in the traditional Latin set.
Key details
Further guidance
Modern Usage Boundary
Cambridge notes that “alumni” is often used for either or both sexes in mixed educational contexts, so the traditional gendered paradigm is not the only modern institutional practice.
Number Boundary
“Alumnus” and “alumna” are singular forms; “alumni” and “alumnae” are plural forms.
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.
- alumnus — Cambridge Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge Dictionary · Alumnus singular and alumni plural, including mixed-group usage note
- alumna — Cambridge Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge Dictionary · Alumna singular and alumnae plural for women