Can You Say 'Pence' as the Plural of American Pennies?
Often, the usage of currency terms can lead to confusion, especially when discussing the plural forms of cent-based coins. The terms 'pence' and 'pennies' are sometimes used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences that can affect clarity in conversation, particularly in English-speaking countries. Let's delve into the specifics of these terms.
Understanding the Terms 'Pence' and 'Pennies'
No, you cannot use 'pence' as the plural of American pennies. This misconception arises from the different uses and contexts in which these terms are employed. In British English, 'pence' is the unit of currency, while 'pennies' refers to individual coins. However, in American English, 'pennies' is the plural form for coins worth one cent, and it would be incorrect to use 'pence' in this context.
Technically Incorrect but Common Usage
The use of 'pence' for American pennies is considered technically incorrect. While it is common to use 'pence' in everyday speech, particularly in informal settings, it can cause confusion, especially for those who are not well-versed in British financial terminology. For example, in American slang, calling a refrigerator an 'ice box' would be similarly incorrect but widely understood.
Common Usage in American English
In American English, 'pennies' is the correct term for the plural of one-cent coins. This usage is consistent and widely accepted. For instance, if you have three one-cent coins, you would say, 'I have three pennies.' It is not incorrect to occasionally use 'pence' in American English, but it is generally considered more appropriate to stick with 'pennies' for clarity.
Specific Historical Context
The term 'pence' has historical origins, as it is part of a contraction from the 14th century that appears in both British and American historical coinage. Terms like 'twopence, threepence, sixpence,' and 'twelvepence' (shillings) all retain the 'pence' plural form. However, this historical context does not extend to modern American usage, where 'pennies' is the more commonly recognized term.
The American Dollar: Cents, Not Pence
Further complicating matters, the American dollar is divided into cents, not pence. While there is no 'American penny' as such, the term 'penny' is often used colloquially to refer to a one-cent coin. This usage is rooted in the country's former association with the United Kingdom, where the term 'penny' was quite common. As such, some Americans might use 'penny' and 'pence' interchangeably, but 'pennies' remains the standard and most widely understood term.
For instance, when a price is listed as $0.01, it is more common and clearer to say, 'one penny' rather than 'one pence.' In the United Kingdom, the price would be described as 'one pence.' The US dollar's division into cents means 'pence' would not be used in this context.
Conclusion
To summarize, 'pennies' is the correct and more widely accepted term for the plural of American one-cent coins. While 'pence' might be used informally, it can lead to confusion and is generally deemed incorrect in American English. Understanding these nuances can help avoid misunderstandings and ensure clear communication in financial discussions.
By adhering to the standard American usage, you can ensure that your language is both accurate and understood by your audience, whether in the United States or internationally.