Both B's and Bs are grammatically acceptable ways to pluralize the letter "B." However, modern style guides generally prefer Bs (without an apostrophe) for pluralizing single letters. The most crucial aspect is to maintain consistency within your writing.
Understanding Plural Forms of Letters
When it comes to forming the plural of a single letter, such as "B," there are two widely accepted conventions. While some may instinctively add an apostrophe, the trend in contemporary English favors omitting it.
Using an Apostrophe (B's)
Historically, and still considered correct by many, using an apostrophe to form the plural of a single letter helps prevent confusion. For instance, "B's" clearly indicates the plural of the letter "B" and distinguishes it from other words.
- Example: He received excellent marks, mostly A's and B's.
Without an Apostrophe (Bs)
The modern and increasingly preferred method is to simply add an "s" without an apostrophe. This approach aligns with the general rule for forming plurals of common nouns and avoids the common misuse of apostrophes for plurals. This style is often seen as cleaner and more direct.
- Example: The student improved his grades, earning several As and Bs.
The Importance of Consistency
Regardless of which style you choose—whether "B's" or "Bs"—the most important rule is consistency. Once you decide on a convention for pluralizing letters, apply it uniformly throughout your document or publication. Mixing styles can create an inconsistent and less professional appearance.
Comparing the Styles
Here's a quick comparison of the two acceptable styles:
| Style | Example | Preference | Clarity |
|---|---|---|---|
| B's | He usually gets A's and B's. | Less preferred | High |
| Bs | He usually gets As and Bs. | Generally preferred | High |
Practical Advice
- For Academic or Formal Writing: Check if your institution or publisher has a specific style guide (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago) that dictates the pluralization of letters. Most modern guides lean towards omitting the apostrophe.
- For General Writing: Opt for the simpler "Bs" to align with current linguistic trends and simplify punctuation.
- Proofread for Consistency: After writing, always review your work to ensure you've applied your chosen style consistently for all letter plurals.
Ultimately, while both forms are grammatically permissible, embracing "Bs" (without the apostrophe) is the contemporary and generally recommended practice for pluralizing single letters like "B."
