The Difference Between Alum and Alumni – A Comprehensive Guide
If you’ve ever attended a university or college, you’ve probably heard the terms ‘alum’ and ‘alumni.’ While the two words may sound similar, there is an important distinction between them. In this article, we’ll explore the difference between alum and alumni, and how to use them correctly.
What Does Alum Mean?
The term ‘alum’ is a shortened version of the word ‘alumnus,’ and it refers to a single graduate of a school or university. For example, if you graduated from Harvard, you would be classified as a Harvard alum.
What Does Alumni Mean?
On the other hand, ‘alumni’ is the plural form of the word ‘alumnus.’ It refers to a group of graduates from a school or university. For example, if a group of Harvard graduates were meeting for a reunion, they would be referred to as ‘Harvard alumni.’
How to Use Alum and Alumni Correctly?
It’s essential to use these two terms correctly when referring to individuals or groups of graduates. Here are some examples:
– “John Smith is an alum of Stanford University.”
– “The alumni of Stanford University gathered for a reunion.”
– “Samantha is an alumna of Brown University.”
Note that ‘alumna’ is the feminine form of ‘alumnus’ used to refer to a single female graduate.
Why Is It Important to Know the Difference?
Using the correct term is crucial in both written and verbal communications. Using ‘alumni’ when referring to a single graduate can make you come across as uninformed. Alternatively, using ‘alum’ when referring to a group of graduates can imply a lack of respect for the individual members of that group.
In conclusion, the difference between alum and alumni is essentially the number of people being referred to. Alum refers to a single school or university graduate, whereas alumni refers to a group of graduates. It’s essential to know the difference and use the correct term when referring to individuals or groups of graduates.
Table difference between alum and alumni
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Alum | A person who has graduated from a particular school or university |
| Alumni | Plural form of alum, referring to a group of people who have graduated from a particular school or university |