The question of whether to use “euro” or “euros” when referring to plural amounts of the European currency is a surprisingly common point of confusion for English speakers. Especially when discussing specific amounts like “10 Euro,” it’s easy to wonder which form is grammatically correct. The reality is that the “correct” answer is more nuanced than a simple singular or plural rule, rooted in the complexities of EU legislation and evolving English language usage.
The Official Stance: EU Legislation and ‘Euro’
Initially, the official guidance within the European Union leaned towards using “euro” and “cent” as both singular and plural forms in English-language EU legislation. This practice, as highlighted by Wikipedia, became somewhat “enshrined” in EU legal texts. The European Commission’s internal style guides even previously recommended this s-less plural, particularly when referencing or amending original legislation. This was a deliberate move to maintain consistency within legal documents, even while other languages adopted regular plurals.
Shift in Recommendations: ‘Euros’ Gains Ground
However, language is dynamic, and usage evolves. Recognizing the disconnect with broader English language conventions, the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Translation has shifted its stance. Their current recommendation is to use the regular plurals, “euros” and “cents.” This acknowledges that while the s-less plural persists in some legislative contexts, for general communication, including documents intended for the public, “euros” and “cents” are now considered more appropriate and natural. Even their own English Style Guide has relaxed restrictions, reflecting this evolving understanding.
Regional Variations: Ireland and the UK
The adoption of the euro in Ireland provides an interesting case study in regional variation. The Irish Department of Finance initially decided to use “euro” as both singular and plural. This governmental decision influenced Irish broadcasters and media, leading to the widespread use of the s-less plural in news and advertising within Ireland. This demonstrates how local legislative choices can shape linguistic conventions, even reinforcing what might be considered “legislative plurals” in everyday usage. Conversely, advertisements from the UK targeting Ireland often still use the more conventional plurals “euros” and “cents,” highlighting a divergence even within geographically close English-speaking regions.
Global English Usage: ‘Euros’ Prevails
Outside of the European Union and Ireland, in the wider English-speaking world, the common practice overwhelmingly favors the regular “-s” plurals: “euros” and “cents.” Media outlets in the UK, the United States (like NPR), and Canada (like CBC) consistently use “euros” and “cents” when reporting currency exchange rates and discussing euro amounts. This reflects a broader linguistic tendency in English to pluralize nouns, especially when referring to countable units of currency.
So, Which is Correct? Context is Key
Ultimately, both “euro” and “euros” can be considered technically “correct” depending on the context. The s-less plural “euro” carries a legacy from early EU legislative style and is still sometimes encountered in formal EU documents or in Irish English due to historical influence. However, for general English communication, especially when aiming for clarity and naturalness with a broader English-speaking audience, “euros” is the more widely understood and accepted plural form.
Applying it to ’10 Euro’: Practical Advice
When it comes to phrases like “10 euro,” the context and intended audience should guide your choice. For most content aimed at a general English-speaking audience, including online content for websites like eurodripusa.net, “10 euros” will likely sound more natural and familiar. While “10 euro” might be understood, “10 euros” aligns with common English pluralization rules and avoids any potential for confusion or sounding overly formal or EU-centric. In essence, when in doubt, opting for “euros” is the safer and more universally accepted choice in contemporary English.
This nuanced situation highlights the fascinating interplay between official regulations, regional dialects, and global English usage in shaping something as seemingly simple as the plural form of a currency name. Understanding this background allows for more informed and effective communication when writing about the euro for diverse English-speaking audiences.
