-es
suffix
UK/-ɪz/US/-ɪz/
Used to form the plural of nouns and the third-person singular form of verbs when the base word ends in -s, -sh, -ch, -x, or -z.
Example Sentences
She watches the stars every night.
He goes to the market every Sunday.
The glasses were placed on the table.
The bushes were trimmed by the gardener.
The churches in the city are beautiful.
The foxes ran through the forest.
He fixes the computer problems quickly.
The princesses were dancing all night at the grand ball, showcasing their beautiful dresses in an enchanting display of joy and elegance.
How to Use
A suffix for third-person singular verbs and specific plural nouns.This suffix is typically added to verbs that end in certain letters (e.g., go → goes, push → pushes) to mark the third-person singular present tense: he goes, she pushes, it reaches. For nouns, -es is used to form plurals when a word ends in sounds that require an extra syllable, such as -ch (church → churches), -sh (brush → brushes), -s (bus → buses), -x (box → boxes), and -z (quiz → quizzes). The insertion of -es in nouns and verbs allows for smooth pronunciation and clarity. It’s vital to remember that some words already end with an “e,” and thus just adding -s still produces the same effect, though we often see spelling adjustments (carry → carries if you’re using -ies). Recognizing where to add -es is straightforward once you identify the base word ending. When writing or speaking, double-check common verb and noun endings to ensure you apply this suffix correctly. Proper usage of -es maintains standard grammatical conventions and helps readers or listeners understand number (singular vs. plural) and person (third-person singular).
Alternatives
Instead of using this suffix, one might see -s or -ies, depending on spelling conventions (e.g., baby → babies, try → tries). However, -es is specifically deployed to maintain clear pronunciation and ensure consistent grammatical patterns. Alternatives to convey plural forms include different strategies in other languages (like changing internal vowels or adding distinct suffixes), but in English, the -es suffix is indispensable for marking certain plurals and third-person singular forms. If you’re writing or speaking casually, sometimes context alone can clarify number or person, but proper usage of standard suffixes helps convey exact meaning and maintain a polished style.
Writing
When writing formally, remember that adding -es follows specific spelling guidelines depending on the final letters of the word. Nouns ending in s, x, ch, sh, or z generally take this suffix to form their plural. Verbs in the third-person singular present tense often take -es if they end in similar sounds or letters (e.g., catches, misses, buzzes). Misusing this suffix can lead to confusion or the appearance of carelessness. Revisit grammar references to confirm standard usage whenever you’re unsure. Clarity and consistency are key. Proofreading for errors in subject-verb agreement also ensures that you have applied the suffix correctly.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, we use this suffix automatically, especially when saying phrases like “He goes,” “She watches,” or “It passes.” While speaking casually, grammar mistakes are often forgiven if your meaning is clear, but consistently applying the correct form helps people follow you more easily. If you’re ever unsure, think about whether the subject is a singular ‘he, she, it’ or a plural. If it’s a single person or thing acting, you usually add -es if the base verb ends in certain letters (like s, sh, ch, z, or x). The more often you notice these endings in daily talk, the more natural they’ll become.
Etymology
The suffix -es in English comes from Old English and was used to mark plural forms and certain grammatical features. Over centuries, spelling patterns evolved, but the essential function of adding -es for certain nouns and third-person singular verbs remained. This little suffix is part of a long lineage of Indo-European endings that marked number, case, or person in earlier stages of the language. Its consistent presence in modern usage reflects the endurance of the core structure of English, underscoring how small affixes can persist through major linguistic shifts and still remain vital today.
