this post was submitted on 02 Nov 2024
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Science Memes

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[–] PunnyName@lemmy.world 5 points 2 weeks ago (4 children)
[–] iii@mander.xyz 12 points 2 weeks ago (1 children)
[–] superkret@feddit.org 6 points 2 weeks ago
[–] tamal3@lemmy.world 8 points 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago)

Words in English that end in "-us" and pluralize to "-i" are from Latin, such as cactus/cacti or focus/foci. However, "octopus" is from Greek, and its correct pluralization from Greek would be "octopodes." In English, we have also adopted "octopuses," which fits our standard pluralization rules.

So, "octopi" is actually a language mix up, though one that's so common that it seems to be accepted in English.

[–] Semjaza@lemmynsfw.com 5 points 2 weeks ago

Actually, octopi is the "erroneous" one. Although it is a very common mistake so might make the shift to recognised before too much longer.

Everyone still understands it, so it doesn't matter.

[–] DrDystopia@lemy.lol 2 points 2 weeks ago (2 children)

Now I wonder how Octopie tastes like. It's probably related to seafood pizza. 🫠

[–] tamal3@lemmy.world 4 points 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago)

IMO it's tragic to eat such an intelligent creature. Maybe stick to these guys...? Mmmm.

[–] PunnyName@lemmy.world 2 points 2 weeks ago

Seafood, eat it