# phenomena

/fəˈnɑmənə/ (US) · /fɪnˈɒmɪnɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/phenomena
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. plural of phenomenon

noun · CEFR B2 · Academic

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

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

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

### 2. a single event

noun · CEFR C1 · Informal · Dialect

a single event or thing that happens.

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

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

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

## Examples

- Scientists study natural phenomena like lightning and storms.
- The researchers documented several strange phenomena in the deep ocean that had never been seen before.
- Social media has accelerated various cultural phenomena, allowing trends to spread across the globe in a matter of hours rather than months.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.