ENGLISH
REFERENCE

phenomena

n.
US //fəˈnɑmənə// UK //fɪnˈɒmɪnɐ// phe·nom·e·na
  1. 1 plural of phenomenon (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Academic Science

    more than one phenomenon; things that happen or exist that can be seen and studied.

    the standard plural of phenomenon, denoting multiple observable events or facts, especially those that are scientifically significant.

    Example

    Scientists are studying natural phenomena like lightning and rainbows to understand how they work.

    Example

    The researchers documented several atmospheric phenomena that had never been recorded at such high altitudes before the new satellite was launched.

    Usage

    Always takes a plural verb in formal and academic writing.
    Pitfall
    This is a very strange phenomena.
    This is a very strange phenomenon.

    Phenomena is plural. Use 'phenomenon' when talking about just one thing.

  2. 2 a single event (n.)
    C1 Advanced Informal Dialect

    a single event or thing that happens.

    used as a singular noun to mean one phenomenon; this is common in casual speech but considered incorrect in formal writing.

    Example

    It was a strange phenomena that nobody could explain at the time.

    Example

    In certain dialects, speakers treat 'phenomena' as a singular count noun, though this remains non-standard in professional contexts.

    Usage

    Used as a singular noun with 'a' or 'this'.

    Teacher's tip

    While heard in spoken English, students should avoid using 'phenomena' as a singular noun in exams or essays.
Origin

The plural form of phenomenon, formed according to the Ancient Greek -ον (-on) → -α (-a) pluralisation pattern.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Last updated June 20, 2026