If you’ve ever finished a report or thesis and paused at the end wondering whether to write “see the appendices” or “see the appendixes”, you’re not alone. Both words exist in English, but choosing the right one depends on context and style.
What Does “Appendix” Mean?
An appendix is:
👉 Supplementary material added at the end of a document, book, or report
It can include charts, tables, graphs, references, or additional explanations that support the main text.
Natural Examples:
- “Please see the appendix for the full data table.”
- “The appendices contain detailed survey results.”
- “A glossary is included in the appendix for clarity.”
The word comes from Latin appendere, meaning “to hang onto,” which makes sense: an appendix hangs at the end of a document.
Appendices vs Appendixes: What’s the Difference?
Both are plural forms of “appendix,” but there’s a subtle distinction:
| Feature | Appendices ✅ | Appendixes ✅ (less common) |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Latin-based plural | Anglicized plural |
| Common Usage | Academic, formal writing | General or casual writing |
| Example Sentence | “The report’s appendices include all charts.” | “The report’s appendixes include all charts.” |
| Preference | Preferred in academic and professional contexts | Acceptable in informal writing |
Key Insight:
- Appendices is widely regarded as the standard plural, especially in academic papers, research reports, and professional publications.
- Appendixes is accepted in dictionaries as a plural form, mainly in informal or general English, but less commonly used.
Think of it as similar to “indices vs indexes”—both are correct, but one is more formal.
Real-Life Examples
1. Academic Writing
- “The thesis includes three appendices with supporting data.” ✅
- “Refer to the appendices for detailed methodology.” ✅
2. Business Reports
- “The financial report has several appendices for transparency.” ✅
- “Additional tables are provided in the appendices.” ✅
3. Informal Writing
- “I attached the appendixes to the email for your reference.” ✅
- “Check the appendixes if you want more examples.” ✅
Even in informal contexts, appendices is more widely recognized and usually preferred.
Practical Tips to Remember
✔ Use “Appendices” in Formal Contexts
- Academic papers, theses, research reports, professional reports
- Always safe and standard
✔ “Appendixes” Is Okay in Casual Writing
- Emails, general guides, or blogs
- Still correct, but less common
✔ Tip: Match Style Guides
- APA, Chicago, and MLA style guides all prefer appendices.
- If you’re writing for school, research, or publishing, go with appendices.
Synonyms and Related Terms
- Supplement
- Addendum
- Annex
Examples:
- “The supplement includes additional charts.” ✅
- “Refer to the addendum for extra details.” ✅
- “The contract contains an annex with the full terms.” ✅
Interesting Fact
The word appendix is also used in anatomy!
- The human appendix is a small tube attached to the large intestine.
- Its name comes from the same Latin root because it “hangs” off the main organ.
So whether you’re writing a report or talking biology, the word implies something extra attached at the end.
Quick Proofreading Tip
When reviewing your document:
- Plural of appendix → appendices (formal) ✅
- Only use appendixes in casual writing or when following a specific style that allows it.
Final Thoughts
Both appendices and appendixes are technically correct, but usage depends on formality and context:
- Appendices → formal, academic, and professional (preferred)
- Appendixes → informal or general writing (acceptable, less common)
By using the right form, your writing looks polished, professional, and consistent.
Next time you write:
“See the appendices for additional charts,”
you’ll know you’ve chosen the correct and widely recognized form.