Understanding the Correct Usage of 'Five Thousand' vs 'Five Thousands'

When discussing numbers, particularly large quantities like 'thousand,' it's essential to use the correct terminology to avoid confusion. In this article, we will explore the difference between 'five thousand' and 'five thousands,' clarify why 'five thousands' is incorrect, and provide examples to help you use 'thousand' correctly in your writing or speech.

What is the Difference Between Five Thousand and Five Thousands?

The short answer is that 'five thousands' is incorrect. Both 'five thousand' and 'five thousands' translate to the same numerical value—5,000 items. However, the former is the correct and commonly accepted form.

'Five thousand' is the specific number, while '5 thousands' (without the 's') is used when referring to an unknown quantity that adds up to 5,000. For instance, if you know you are referring to exactly 5,000 items, you would say 'five thousand.' If the total could be any number that sums up to 5,000, such as five groups of 1,000, you would use 'five thousands.' This nuance can affect how the number is understood in a sentence.

Why 'Five Thousand' is Correct and 'Five Thousands' is Incorrect

Let's break down why 'five thousand' is correct and 'five thousands' is incorrect:

Incorrect Form: 'Five Thousands'

The word 'thousand' is already a plural form. Here's a breakdown:

Thousand is a noun (a quantity of a thousand). The 's' in 'thousand' already signifies the plural form. Therefore, adding another 's' to 'thousands' is grammatically incorrect.

Using 'five thousands' would be similar to saying 'plural plural,' which is redundant and incorrect. So, the correct usage is 'five thousand.'

Correct Forms: 'Five Thousand' and 'Five Thousands'

Now, let's explore the correct forms:

Five Thousand (Specific Quantity)

If you are referring to a specific number of 5,000 items, you would use 'five thousand,' like in the following examples:

A. If it is an unknown amount the "thousands" is correct. It is known as "five thousands." Therefore, it does not need the "s." B. "Five thousand" is correct because the amount is known. Suppose you have a budget of $5,000. You would say: "The project requires five thousand dollars." Suppose a company has 5,000 employees. You would say: "The firm has five thousand employees."

Five Thousands (Unknown Quantity)

If the total could be any number that sums up to 5,000, such as five groups of 1,000, you would use 'five thousands' to indicate the sum.

Here are some examples:

A. I put 20 gallons in my car's gas tank. (Specific quantity, not 'thousands') B. The driver placed numerous gallons in his 18-wheeler truck. (Indicating many groups, not a specific number) C. They have a new 'five thousand' dollar horse in the barn. (More precisely: 'They have a new $5,000 horse in the barn.' If referring to multiple horses, it could be 'The stables have five thousands of horses together.'

Conclusion

Understanding the nuances between 'five thousand' and 'five thousands' is crucial for clear communication. 'Five thousand' is used for specific quantities, while 'five thousands' (without the 's' on 'thousand') is used to indicate the total of multiple groups of 1,000. By mastering these distinctions, you can enhance your writing and speech, making your communications more precise and accurate.

Keywords: plural, thousands, grammatical mistake