Appendixes vs Appendices: Learn the Difference Fast(2026)

Hey, I want to share something that happened to me recently about Appendixes or Appendices.

I was chatting with a friend when this term suddenly came up, and honestly, I had no idea what it meant at first.

I kept thinking, “Am I missing something here?” It was a bit confusing, and I didn’t want to reply the wrong way or sound unsure.

So, I decided to look into Appendixes or Appendices to understand their meaning and proper usage.

Once I learned the difference, everything started to make sense.

I realized how important it is to know these small but tricky grammar terms to avoid awkward moments in conversations, writing, or even on social media. Now, whenever I see Appendixes or Appendices, I feel confident using the correct term without hesitation.

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Appendixes or Appendices – Quick Answer

Both appendixes and appendices are plural forms of appendix, but usage differs:

• Appendices – Used in formal writing, academic papers, or technical documents.
• Appendixes – Common in general or informal writing, especially in American English.

Example:

• Academic paper: “See the appendices for survey data.”
• Casual email: “I’ve attached the appendixes for your reference.”

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The Origin of Appendixes or Appendices

The word appendix comes from Latin appendere, meaning “to hang upon.” Historically, scholars used appendices in manuscripts to refer to supplementary material. Over time, appendixes emerged in English as a simpler alternative. Both are now standard, but the Latin-based appendices carries a more formal tone. The spelling difference exists due to the influence of Latin on academic English versus more simplified forms in general usage.

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British English vs American English Spelling

In British and American English, spelling preferences differ slightly:

Form	Usage Region	Context
Appendices	UK, Commonwealth	Academic, technical, formal
Appendixes	US	Informal, general writing

Key Rule: American English accepts both, but appendixes is more common outside academic writing. British English almost exclusively uses appendices.

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Which Spelling Should You Use?

• Academic papers & formal documents: Always use appendices.
• Casual writing, emails, business documents in the US: Appendixes is acceptable.
• Global audiences: Appendices is safest for clarity and professionalism.

In short, let the context and audience guide your choice.

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Common Mistakes with Appendixes or Appendices

1. Using appendixes in academic papers – prefer appendices.
2. Confusing singular and plural forms: “appendix’s” (singular possessive) vs “appendices” (plural).
3. Misspelling the word: “appendixes” vs “appendix” – check your editor’s settings.

Correction Example:

• Wrong: “The report includes several appendixes.” (academic paper)
• Correct: “The report includes several appendices.”

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Appendixes or Appendices in Everyday Examples

• Emails: “I’ve attached the appendixes for your review.”
• News articles: “Refer to the appendices for additional statistics.”
• Social media posts: “Check out the appendices of the report!”
• Formal writing: “Appendices provide supplementary charts and tables for clarity.”

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Appendixes or Appendices – Google Trends & Usage Data

Based on Google Trends:

• Appendices dominates in the UK, Australia, and academic contexts.
• Appendixes is more searched in the US in casual contexts.

This shows that regional preference and context influence spelling choice.

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Comparison Table: Appendixes vs Appendices

Feature	Appendixes	Appendices
Region	US	UK, Commonwealth
Formality	Informal	Formal / Academic
Common Usage	Emails, business	Academic papers, research
Latin Origin Influence	Low	High
Recommended Audience	Casual US readers	Global & academic readers

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FAQs

1. Is “appendixes” wrong?
No, it is correct but more informal, especially in American English.

2. Can I use “appendices” in the US?
Yes, it’s perfectly correct and preferred for academic writing.

3. Which spelling is better for students?
Students should use appendices in essays, reports, and research papers.

4. Can both be used interchangeably?
In informal contexts, yes. In formal writing, appendices is preferred.

5. How do I decide which to use?
Check your audience and writing type: formal = appendices, casual = appendixes (US).

6. Is the singular “appendix” spelled the same everywhere?
Yes, “appendix” is universal as the singular form.

7. Are there style guides recommending one over the other?
Yes, APA, MLA, and Chicago style guides prefer appendices.

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Conclusion

The choice between appendixes and appendices depends on context, audience, and region. For formal or academic writing, appendices is the safest and most widely accepted spelling globally. For casual US-based writing, appendixes is acceptable. Understanding this distinction ensures professional communication and avoids common mistakes. Always consider your readers and the type of document when deciding which form to use. With this guidance, you can confidently write using either spelling, knowing exactly when each is appropriate.