Brethren or Brethrens
Which Spelling is Correct?
Understanding the correct spelling of "Brethren" and "Brethrens". This is the plural form of "brother" used in formal or religious contexts.
❌ Brethrens
This spelling is incorrect. "Brethrens" is a misspelling of the word "brethren."
Incorrect Examples:
- • My brethrens and I attended the meeting
- • The brethrens of the church gathered
- • All my brethrens were present
✅ Brethren
This is the correct spelling. "Brethren" is the proper English spelling.
Correct Examples:
- • My brethren and I attended the meeting
- • The brethren of the church gathered
- • All my brethren were present
Definition of Brethren
Brethren (noun): Plural form of "brother" - used to refer to brothers, especially in formal or religious contexts.
Brethren (noun): Members of a particular group, especially a religious or fraternal organization.
Brethren (noun): Fellow members of a profession, trade, or other group.
Used in formal, religious, or fraternal contexts to address or refer to a group of men or members of an organization.
Synonyms for Brethren
- • Brothers
- • Siblings
- • Kin
- • Relatives
- • Comrades
- • Associates
- • Members
- • Fellows
Notes:
- • "Brethren" is already the plural form - it doesn't need an additional "s"
- • The word comes from Old English "brōþor" (brother) with the plural ending "-en"
- • The pronunciation is /ˈbreðrən/ (BRETH-ruhn)
- • "Brethrens" is a common misspelling but is never correct
- • This is an irregular plural form, similar to "children" and "oxen"
- • It's primarily used in formal, religious, or fraternal contexts
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do people spell it "brethrens"?
A: This misspelling occurs because people think "brethren" needs an additional "s" to make it plural, but "brethren" is already the plural form of "brother."
Q: Is "brethrens" ever acceptable?
A: No, "brethrens" is always incorrect. Always use "brethren" in all contexts.
Q: What's the difference between "brethren" and "brothers"?
A: Both are plural forms of "brother," but "brethren" is more formal and often used in religious or fraternal contexts, while "brothers" is the standard modern plural.
Q: How do I remember the correct spelling?
A: Remember that "brethren" is already plural (like "children" and "oxen"). It doesn't need an additional "s" because it's an irregular plural form.
Summary
Brethren is the correct spelling of this word. The incorrect spelling "brethrens" should never be used.
Remember: Brethren is already the plural form of "brother" (like "children" and "oxen"). It doesn't need an additional "s" because it's an irregular plural form used in formal or religious contexts.