UK vs. US: The Plural Forms of 'Penny' and 'Pence'
The English language often varies between different countries, and when it comes to coinage terms, this difference is particularly pronounced. In the United States, the plural of 'penny' is 'pennies,' while in the United Kingdom, it is 'pence.' This variation has led to much discussion and confusion, especially following the introduction of new coinage in the UK in 1971.
The Introduction of New Coinage in 1971
The year 1971 saw significant changes in the UK's currency, particularly in how it referred to its smallest unit of value. Previously, the term 'pence' was rarely used as a standalone word. Instead, names like 'tuppence,' 'thrupence,' and 'sixpence' were more common, representing various coin denominations.
The new coin introduced in the UK was named the 'Two Pence' coin, marking a departure from the past. This led to much discussion about the correct usage of 'pence' versus 'pennies,' especially when referring to individual coins and their values.
UK Terminology: Pennies and Pence
In the UK, there are distinct uses for both 'penny' and 'pence.' 'Pennies' is the plural form used to refer to individual coins worth one penny each. For example, if one had ten one-penny coins, they would have ten pennies, not ten pence.
'Pence,' on the other hand, is used in a more collective sense, typically with larger numbers, or to describe the value of a coin or currency amount. For instance, if something costs 50 pence, the correct term to use is 'pence' rather than 'pennies.'
US Terminology: Pennies and Cents
In the United States, the term 'penny' is a relic from the colonial period when the value system was based on pounds, shillings, and pence (the same as in the UK). When the US issued its own currency, it adopted the penny as the base unit of value, approximately equivalent to 250 years ago. One hundred pennies equal one dollar, and although the official term is 'cent,' the familiar 'penny' remains.
It is important to note that in the US, 'penny' is used as a name for a single coin, and there are no 'pennies' as a plural form in the US context. Instead, they use 'cents' for both the singular and plural forms.
Comparison and Usage
The difference between 'pennies' and 'pence' is most noticeable when discussing the plurality and context of currency. In the UK, 'pennies' are individual coins, while 'pence' are used for values or coin denominations beyond a single penny.
For example, in the UK, you could describe paying for something in a variety of ways:
1. Giving 98 pennies (98 separate one-penny coins).
2. Giving a fifty-pence coin, two twenty-pence coins, a five-pence coin, a two-penny coin, and a one-penny coin.
3. Giving a one-pound coin and receiving three pence in change (three one-penny coins or one two-penny coin and one penny coin).
In the US, the usage would be simpler since there is no distinction between 'pennies' and 'pence.' They would simply use 'cents.'
Conclusion
The distinction between 'penny' and 'pence' highlights the fascinating differences in English language and terminology across the Atlantic. While 'pennies' and 'pence' may be seen as a case of an older term the UK no longer uses, the US retains 'penny' for a singular coin, deriving from its historical roots. Understanding these differences can help avoid confusion and enhance communication in international contexts.