Gasses or Gases — What’s the Difference?

Last Updated on April 12, 2025 by Johnny Peter

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering whether it’s “gasses” or “gases,” you’re not alone. Both terms are used interchangeably by some, but understanding the difference between them is essential for both proper grammar and scientific accuracy. 

In this article, we’ll explore the distinction between these two terms, explain why one is more commonly used than the other, and provide insights on when to use “gasses” versus “gases”.

You may have heard that “gases” is the preferred plural form, and you’re right — it’s the one you’ll see most often in both everyday language and scientific texts. However, “gasses” does have its place, especially in specialized contexts. 

So, why does this confusion exist, and why is it important to get it right? Let’s dive in to learn the proper usage of these words and uncover the rules behind them.

Definition of “Gasses”

What Is “Gasses”?

The term “gasses” refers to the plural form of gas. While it’s a correct plural, it’s quite rare and typically used in specific scientific contexts. Unlike most standard plural forms, “gasses” is used to describe multiple gases that are treated as separate entities. 

For instance, you might encounter it in scientific research or when discussing different types of gases emitted from various processes.

• Example in scientific writing: “The gasses released from the industrial plant included methane and carbon dioxide.”
  
• Specialized use: The use of “gasses” emphasizes distinct varieties or classifications of gases in chemical experiments or engineering discussions.
  

Though grammatically correct, the use of “gasses” is less common than “gases” in general writing. It’s important to understand when and why to use this term, particularly in highly technical fields.

Why “Gasses” is Less Common

Despite being the technically correct plural in certain instances, “gasses” is often avoided in favor of “gases” because of its awkward sound and the tendency for writers to use simpler terms. 

This makes “gasses” a rarer form that’s mostly confined to specific scientific fields where precision in language is paramount.

Definition of “Gases”

What Is “Gases”?

In contrast to “gasses,” “gases” is the more common plural form of gas. It refers to the various types or kinds of gases, typically used in both scientific and everyday language. 

For instance, when we talk about the composition of the Earth’s atmosphere, we are referring to a mixture of gases like nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide.

• Example in everyday writing: “The gases in the balloon expanded when it was heated.”
  
• Scientific context: “Gases such as hydrogen and oxygen are essential for fuel cells.”
  

Why “Gases” Is More Common

“Gases” is the accepted and standard plural form of gas in almost all contexts. It’s simple, clear, and follows the typical pluralization rule for words ending in “s”. 

This makes it the default choice for almost every context, from casual conversations to scientific papers.

• General rule of thumb: If you’re talking about multiple types of gas, “gases” is your go-to word.
  

Historical Context and Evolution of the Terms

Etymology of “Gas”

The word gas comes from the Dutch word “gas,” which was coined by Jan Baptist van Helmont in the 17th century. Helmont used it to describe a substance that had no form or shape, referring to what we now know as gaseous substances.

Over time, the plural form evolved into two variants: “gasses” and “gases.” Early grammarians preferred “gasses” as it followed the standard English rules for pluralization, where adding “es” was common. 

However, over time, “gases” became the dominant plural form due to its simplicity and ease of pronunciation.

Historical Grammar Trends

In the 18th and 19th centuries, the use of “gasses” was more common, especially in scientific and literary texts. However, as English evolved, so did its grammar rules, and “gases” emerged as the more standardized plural form. Today, “gases” is overwhelmingly preferred in all but the most technical contexts.

Linguistic Rules for Plurals

General Pluralization Rules

In English, we generally form plurals by adding “s” to words. However, there are certain cases where adding “es” is required, such as with words that end in “s,” “x,” “z,” “ch,” “sh,” or “o.”

For example:

• “Boxes” for box
  
• “Watches” for watch
  
• “Gases” for gas
  

Why “Gases” is Preferred Over “Gasses”

The term “gasses” follows a less common rule of pluralization, where an additional “s” is added to words ending in “s”. 

The extra “s” at the end of “gasses” isn’t necessary in modern English, and linguists favor “gases” because it simplifies pronunciation and maintains consistency with other scientific terms.

• Phonetics: The sound of “gasses” can sound more awkward, whereas “gases” flows more smoothly in speech.
  

Scientific Context: When Is “Gasses” Used?

Specialized Scientific Contexts

In very specific scientific contexts, “gasses” may be used to emphasize individual, distinct types of gases. 

For example, chemists and physicists working with gaseous elements or substances might use “gasses” to differentiate between different chemical compounds released during an experiment or industrial process.

• Example: “The gasses involved in the reaction were separated by their differing molecular weights.”
  

Though it’s accurate to use “gasses” in such cases, this form is more of a technical choice and not commonly found in general or non-specialized writing.

Common Example in Physics or Chemistry

In physics, where gas laws and behaviors are crucial, the term “gasses” might appear in experiments that involve measuring specific gases under different conditions. 

For instance, you may encounter it when discussing the behaviors of gasses in various controlled environments.

• Example: “We monitored the various gasses produced during the combustion process.”
  

Everyday and Common Usage: Why “Gases” Is the Standard

Why “Gases” Is More Common

For most readers and writers, “gases” is the go-to term when referring to multiple types of gas. It’s more versatile and used in a variety of contexts, from discussions about air quality to the composition of the atmosphere.

• Example in common language: “The balloon was filled with gases like helium.”
  

Since “gases” is both the accepted and more commonly used plural, it’s the one you’ll see in textbooks, articles, and everyday conversations.

The Role of “Gases” in Various Industries

The term “gases” plays a significant role in several industries, including healthcare (e.g., medical gases), environmental science (e.g., greenhouse gases), and engineering (e.g., industrial gases). Whether discussing nitrogen, oxygen, or carbon dioxide, “gases” is always the preferred form.

Common Mistakes and Misunderstandings

Misuse of “Gasses”

One common mistake that many people make is using “gasses” instead of “gases” when they mean the plural of gas. This is often a result of incorrectly applying pluralization rules or simply misunderstanding the term. 

Since “gasses” isn’t commonly used outside of scientific contexts, it’s easy to see how confusion arises.

Examples of Misused “Gasses”

• Incorrect: “The gasses in the kitchen were dangerous.”
  
• Correct: “The gases in the kitchen were dangerous.”
  

In most everyday scenarios, “gases” is the appropriate choice. It’s simpler, more recognized, and grammatically correct in most situations.

When to Use Each Term

Guidance on Usage

• Use “gasses” in highly specialized contexts, such as chemical experiments or when describing distinct varieties of gases.
  
• Use “gases” for general use, whether you’re discussing atmospheric gases, medical gases, or gases used in industrial processes.
  

Practical Examples

• “The scientists studied the different gasses produced during combustion.” (Specialized use)
  
• “The gases released into the air can affect climate change.” (General use)
  

Regional Differences in Usage

Though “gases” is the standard plural form globally, certain regions or dialects might favor one over the other, especially in informal speech. However, the difference remains minor and is generally consistent with the global standard.

Conclusion

In summary, the key difference between “gasses” and “gases” lies in their use and frequency. While “gasses” may occasionally be found in highly specialized scientific contexts, “gases” remains the preferred term in most cases, from everyday conversations to scientific writings. 

Now that you understand the distinction between the two, you can confidently use them in the appropriate contexts.

Remember, whether you’re discussing air quality, chemistry, or environmental issues, “gases” is the go-to plural form for gas. Keep this guide handy to ensure you use these terms correctly in all your writing!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What’s the difference between “gasses” and “gases”?

The primary difference is that “gasses” is the plural form of gas used in specialized scientific contexts to refer to distinct types of gases. “Gases” is the standard plural form and is used in most everyday and scientific writing. “Gases” is much more commonly used.

2. Why do some people say “gasses” instead of “gases”?

The word “gasses” is technically correct, but it’s used in very specific contexts like scientific discussions, where the word emphasizes different types or kinds of gases. It’s much less common than “gases” because “gases” is simpler and follows the standard pluralization rules.

3. Can I use “gasses” in everyday writing?

No, “gasses” is not typically used in everyday writing. It’s reserved for scientific or technical contexts where you need to differentiate between distinct gases. In regular speech and writing, “gases” is the correct and preferred plural form.

4. Is “gasses” grammatically incorrect?

No, “gasses” is not grammatically incorrect, but it’s rarely used in modern English outside of scientific fields. It’s a valid plural form, but it can sound awkward, which is why “gases” is preferred for most writing.

5. Why is “gases” the preferred term?

“Gases” is the more commonly used plural because it’s simpler and flows better in speech and writing. It follows the standard English pluralization rule for words ending in “s” and is widely accepted across various contexts, from general use to scientific discussions.