What Is the Plural of Analysis?

The plural of analysis is analyses. This follows the rule for Greek-derived words ending in -sis, where the ending changes to -ses in the plural. So one analysis, two analyses. This is a common point of confusion because the singular and plural look and sound similar, but they are distinct in both spelling and pronunciation.

Quick Answer: Analysis vs. Analyses

Use analysis when referring to one detailed examination. Use analyses when referring to two or more examinations. The pronunciation also shifts: analysis ends with a long e sound (uh-nal-uh-sis), while analyses ends with a long eez sound (uh-nal-uh-seez).

Why the Plural Is “Analyses”

This word comes from Greek, where nouns ending in -sis change to -ses in the plural. Other examples include crisis (crises), thesis (theses), and hypothesis (hypotheses). English has kept this pattern, so you cannot simply add an -s or -es to make the plural. Writing “analysises” or “analysises” is incorrect.

Formal vs. Informal Use

Analysis and analyses are used in both formal and informal contexts, but they are more common in academic, scientific, and professional writing. In casual conversation, people might say “looks” or “checks” instead. However, if you are writing a research paper, a business report, or an email to a colleague, using the correct form shows precision.

In Formal Writing

Use analysis or analyses when describing data, experiments, or detailed studies. For example:

• The analysis of the survey results took three weeks.
• We conducted multiple analyses to verify the findings.

In Informal Conversation

In everyday speech, you might hear:

• Let me do a quick analysis of the situation.
• I did a few analyses on the numbers, and they look good.

Even in informal settings, using the correct plural form helps you sound clear and educated.

Comparison Table: Analysis vs. Analyses

Natural Examples

Here are examples that show how analysis and analyses appear in real writing and speech.

• The analysis of the poem revealed hidden themes.
• Our team presented three separate analyses at the conference.
• Each analysis focused on a different variable.
• The analyses were peer-reviewed before publication.
• I need to finish one more analysis before the deadline.
• All analyses point to the same conclusion.

Common Mistakes

Even native speakers sometimes mix up these forms. Here are the most frequent errors.

Mistake 1: Using “analysis” for multiple items

Incorrect: We did several analysis on the data.
Correct: We did several analyses on the data.

Mistake 2: Adding an extra syllable

Incorrect: The analysises were thorough.
Correct: The analyses were thorough.

Mistake 3: Confusing pronunciation

Incorrect: Saying “uh-nal-uh-sis” for the plural.
Correct: The plural ends with a clear “eez” sound.

Mistake 4: Using the wrong verb

Incorrect: The analyses is complete.
Correct: The analyses are complete.

Better Alternatives and When to Use Them

In some contexts, you might choose a different word to avoid repetition or to match the tone. Here are some alternatives.

• Examination – Use in formal or medical contexts. Example: A thorough examination of the patient was done.
• Review – Use for literature or performance. Example: The review of the article was positive.
• Study – Use for research. Example: The study included 500 participants.
• Evaluation – Use for assessments. Example: The evaluation of the program showed improvement.
• Assessment – Use for risk or needs. Example: A risk assessment was conducted.

When you need to be precise about a detailed breakdown, analysis or analyses is usually the best choice. For less formal situations, look or check can work.

Mini Practice: Analysis or Analyses?

Choose the correct form for each sentence. Answers are below.

1. The first _____ of the data showed a clear trend.
2. We completed three separate _____ last month.
3. Each _____ must be reviewed by the supervisor.
4. All _____ were conducted using the same method.

Answers:

1. analysis
2. analyses
3. analysis
4. analyses

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is “analyses” pronounced differently from “analysis”?

Yes. Analysis ends with a short iss sound, while analyses ends with a long eez sound. Practice saying “one analysis, two analyses” aloud to hear the difference.

2. Can I use “analysis” as a plural in informal writing?

No. Even in informal writing, using analysis for multiple items is incorrect. Stick with analyses for clarity.

3. What other words follow the same pattern?

Common examples include crisis (crises), thesis (theses), hypothesis (hypotheses), parenthesis (parentheses), and diagnosis (diagnoses).

4. How can I remember the plural form?

Think of the phrase “one analysis, many analyses.” The change from -sis to -ses is consistent for Greek loanwords. A quick trick: if you can replace it with “studies” or “examinations,” use analyses.

Final Note

Mastering the plural of analysis is a small but important step in clear English. Whether you are writing an academic paper, a business report, or an email, using the correct form shows attention to detail. For more help with similar words, explore our guides on Common Plural Forms and Confusing Plurals. If you have further questions, visit our FAQ page or contact us.