Analyses or Analysis: Using These Words Correctly

Have you ever paused while writing and wondered, Should I use analysis or analyses? You’re not alone. This is a common grammar question for students, researchers, bloggers, and professionals.

The confusion is simple. Analysis and analyses are related, but they are not the same. One is singular. The other is plural. Because English borrows words from other languages, the plural form does not follow normal rules, which leads to mistakes.

Using the wrong word can change meaning and make writing look unpolished, especially in essays, reports, and research work. Spellcheck often misses this error.

This guide gives a clear answer, easy rules, and real examples. By the end, you’ll know exactly when to use analysis and when to use analyses without second guessing.


Analyses or Analysis – Quick Answer

Analysis is singular.
Analyses is plural.

Examples:

  • This analysis explains the results.
  • The report includes several analyses.
  • Her analysis is detailed and clear.
  • The scientist reviewed multiple analyses.

Simple rule:

  • One study, report, or review → analysis
  • More than one → analyses

The Origin of Analysis or Analyses

The confusion between analysis and analyses comes from their origin.

Origin of analysis

  • Comes from Greek analýō
  • Meaning: to break something down
  • Entered English through Latin and academic writing

Why the plural is analyses

  • Greek-based words often change form in the plural
  • -is becomes -es
  • Similar examples:
    • Thesis → Theses
    • Crisis → Crises
    • Hypothesis → Hypotheses

Why confusion exists

  • Plural form looks unusual
  • Pronunciation changes slightly
  • English usually adds “s,” but not here

This makes analyses or analysis a common grammar challenge.


British English vs American English Spelling

There is no spelling difference between British and American English for analysis or analyses.

The rules are the same worldwide.

Comparison Table

WordBritish EnglishAmerican EnglishMeaning
AnalysisAnalysisAnalysisSingular
AnalysesAnalysesAnalysesPlural

Key point:

This is a grammar difference, not a regional spelling difference.


Which Spelling Should You Use?

Your choice depends on number, not location.

Use analysis when:

  • Referring to one study or review
  • Talking about one explanation
  • Describing a single process

Examples:

  • The analysis is complete.
  • His analysis explains the problem.

Use analyses when:

  • Referring to multiple studies
  • Comparing different reviews
  • Discussing several evaluations

Examples:

  • The paper includes several analyses.
  • We reviewed past analyses for accuracy.

Audience-based advice:

  • US audience: Same rule
  • UK/Commonwealth audience: Same rule
  • Global audience: Same rule

Always count the subject.


Analysis vs Analyses in Academic and Research Writing

In academic and research writing, choosing between analysis and analyses is especially important. A single experiment, report, or interpretation uses analysis. When comparing results from multiple studies or sources, analyses is required. Using the wrong form can weaken arguments and reduce clarity in essays, journals, and research papers.

Common Mistakes with Analyses or Analysis

Mistake 1: Using analyses for one item

❌ This analyses shows the result.
✅ This analysis shows the result.

Mistake 2: Using analysis for multiple items

❌ The report includes many analysis.
✅ The report includes many analyses.

Mistake 3: Adding “s” to analysis

❌ analysises
analyses

Mistake 4: Confusing pronunciation

  • Analysis: uh-NAL-uh-sis
  • Analyses: uh-NAL-uh-seez

Analyses or Analysis in Everyday Examples

Emails

  • Please review the analysis by Friday.
  • I’ve attached two analyses for comparison.

News

  • The analysis explains market trends.
  • Experts released multiple analyses today.

Social Media

  • New analysis just dropped!
  • These analyses reveal shocking facts.

Formal Writing

  • The analysis supports the hypothesis.
  • Previous analyses confirm the findings.

Correct usage improves clarity and professionalism.


Analyses or Analysis – Google Trends & Usage Data

Search trends show analyses or analysis is popular in:

  • Academic writing
  • Research fields
  • Business reports
  • Data and SEO content

Popular regions:

  • United States
  • United Kingdom
  • India
  • Pakistan
  • Australia

Usage insight:

  • Analysis appears more often in general writing
  • Analyses is common in academic and research contexts

Most searches come from people writing essays, reports, and professional documents.


Analyses or Analysis – Comparison Table

FeatureAnalysisAnalyses
NumberSingularPlural
MeaningOne study or reviewMultiple studies
Ends with-is-es
Common useGeneral writingAcademic writing
ExampleOne analysisSeveral analyses

FAQs:

1. What is the difference between analysis and analyses?

Analysis is singular. Analyses is plural.

2. Is analyses American or British?

It is used in both. There is no regional difference.

3. Can I say “many analysis”?

No. Use many analyses.

4. Why doesn’t analysis become analysiss?

Because it follows Greek plural rules.

5. Is analyses formal?

Yes. It is common in academic and professional writing.

6. How do I remember the difference?

Think: one = analysis, many = analyses.

7. Are analysis and analyses pronounced the same?

No. The ending sound changes.


Conclusion:

The difference between analysis and analyses is simple. Analysis is singular, while analyses is plural.
The confusion comes from Greek grammar rules, not modern English plural patterns.

There is no British or American difference. Just count what you mean: one is analysis, more than one is analyses.

Using the correct form makes your writing clearer, more accurate, and more professional.


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