babies
babies 30초 만에
- Babies is the plural of baby, referring to humans in their earliest stage of life, usually before they can walk or talk fluently.
- The word is also used generally for the young of many animal species, such as baby birds, kittens, or puppies.
- Metaphorically, 'babies' can describe projects, businesses, or inventions that someone has created and nurtured with great personal care.
- Grammatically, it follows the 'y to ies' pluralization rule and requires plural verb agreement and specific possessive punctuation.
The term babies serves as the plural form of 'baby,' representing the most fundamental stage of human development. Biologically, it refers to infants from the moment of birth until they reach the developmental milestones of walking and talking, typically around the age of one to two years. However, the linguistic utility of the word extends far beyond simple biology. In a social context, babies represent new beginnings, vulnerability, and the future of a community. People use this word in medical settings to discuss neonatal care, in domestic settings to describe family life, and in emotional contexts to evoke feelings of tenderness or responsibility. The word is deeply rooted in the human experience, appearing in every culture as a focal point of celebration and care. When we speak of babies, we are often referring to a group of individuals who require total dependency on caregivers. This dependency defines much of the vocabulary surrounding the word, including terms like 'nurturing,' 'protection,' and 'growth.' Furthermore, the word is used in zoology to describe the young of various animals, such as 'baby birds' or 'baby seals,' though specific terms like 'chicks' or 'pups' are often preferred in technical writing. In the modern era, the word has also taken on a metaphorical dimension. Entrepreneurs often refer to their startup companies as their 'babies,' signifying the immense personal investment, late nights, and protective instincts they feel toward their projects. This figurative use highlights the word's association with something that is precious, requires constant attention, and has the potential for significant future growth.
- Biological Stage
- Refers to the neonatal and infancy periods of human life, characterized by rapid physical and cognitive development.
The hospital nursery was filled with the gentle breathing of twenty newborn babies.
In terms of frequency, 'babies' is a high-utility word found in literature, news, and daily conversation. It carries a positive connotation in most contexts, associated with joy and the continuation of the family line. However, it can also be used in contexts of social policy, such as 'baby bonuses' or 'childcare for babies,' where the focus shifts to the economic and structural support required to raise the next generation. The transition from 'baby' to 'babies' is not just a grammatical change but a shift in perspective from an individual child to a demographic or a collective group. This is particularly evident in phrases like 'the baby boom,' referring to a period of significantly increased birth rates. Understanding the nuances of this word requires recognizing its role as both a literal descriptor and a powerful symbol of life's earliest and most delicate phase.
- Metaphorical Use
- Used to describe cherished projects, inventions, or businesses that the creator has nurtured from inception.
She has three different startups, and she treats all of them like her babies.
Culturally, the concept of 'babies' is surrounded by rituals. From baby showers in Western cultures to the 'Doljanchi' (first birthday celebration) in Korea, the collective noun 'babies' often appears in the plural when discussing these social phenomena. In literature, babies often symbolize innocence or a clean slate. Authors use the presence of babies to contrast with the harshness of the adult world. In scientific discourse, 'babies' is often replaced by more specific terms like 'infants' or 'neonates' to provide precision regarding the exact age and developmental stage. However, in general English, 'babies' remains the most versatile and common term. It covers everything from a one-day-old newborn to a toddler who is just beginning to take their first steps. The word's flexibility is one of its most important features, allowing it to be used in a wide variety of social and professional settings without sounding overly clinical or excessively sentimental.
- Collective Noun
- Often used to refer to a group of infants in a daycare, hospital, or family setting.
The daycare center is specially equipped to handle up to ten babies at a time.
The documentary showed how mother elephants protect their babies from predators.
Healthy babies usually double their birth weight within the first five months.
Using the word babies correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a plural count noun. The most important rule is the spelling change: when a word ends in a consonant followed by 'y', we change the 'y' to 'i' and add 'es'. This is a common point of confusion for English learners who might mistakenly write 'babys'. In a sentence, 'babies' typically functions as the subject or the object. For example, 'Babies need a lot of sleep' (subject) or 'The nurse is checking the babies' (object). Because babies are living beings, we often use possessive forms, such as 'the babies' toys' or 'the babies' health,' where the apostrophe follows the 's' because the word is already plural. This distinguishes it from the singular possessive 'the baby's toy.' When constructing sentences, it is also important to consider the verbs associated with babies. Common verbs include 'cry,' 'sleep,' 'crawl,' 'feed,' and 'grow.' These verbs help paint a picture of the activities and needs associated with infancy.
- Subject-Verb Agreement
- Since 'babies' is plural, it always takes a plural verb. Example: 'The babies are (not is) crying.'
Many babies begin to recognize their parents' voices even before they are born.
Adjectives also play a crucial role in how we describe babies. Common descriptors include 'newborn,' 'healthy,' 'fussy,' 'sleeping,' and 'adorable.' These adjectives provide specific information about the state or characteristics of the infants being discussed. In more formal or academic writing, you might see 'babies' used in conjunction with statistical or medical terms. For instance, 'The study tracked the development of 500 babies over three years.' Here, the word is used as a neutral, objective label for the subjects of the research. In contrast, in creative writing, 'babies' might be used more evocatively to create a sense of atmosphere or emotion. The word can also be part of compound nouns or phrases, such as 'baby clothes,' 'baby food,' or 'baby monitors.' In these cases, 'baby' acts as an attributive noun (a noun acting like an adjective), and it usually stays in the singular form even if it refers to items for multiple babies. However, when talking about the infants themselves, we must use the plural 'babies.'
- Possessive Plural
- To show that something belongs to multiple babies, add only an apostrophe after the 's'. Example: 'The babies' cribs were lined up in a row.'
The pediatrician specializes in treating babies with respiratory issues.
Furthermore, the word 'babies' can be used in the context of comparison. You might say, 'These two babies are very different in temperament,' or 'The twin babies look identical.' In these instances, the plural form allows for the discussion of multiple individuals within the same developmental category. In the figurative sense mentioned earlier, the plural is also essential. A manager might say, 'I have several babies to look after this quarter,' referring to various high-priority projects. This usage is common in professional slang to denote projects that require a high level of personal care and attention. Finally, consider the use of 'babies' in general statements about humanity or biology, such as 'Babies are born with a natural instinct to suckle.' This uses the plural to make a universal claim about the species. Whether you are writing a medical report, a personal blog post, or a business email, mastering the plural form 'babies' and its associated grammar is essential for clear and natural-sounding English.
- Generalizations
- Using the plural without an article (e.g., 'Babies are...') is the standard way to make general statements about all infants.
In some cultures, babies are carried in slings close to their mothers' bodies all day.
We need to buy more diapers for the babies in the nursery.
How many babies were born in this hospital last month?
The word babies is ubiquitous, appearing in a vast array of environments from the most clinical to the most casual. In a hospital or medical clinic, you will hear it constantly. Obstetricians, nurses, and pediatricians use it to refer to their patients. You might hear a nurse say, 'We have three new babies in the NICU today,' or a doctor discussing 'babies' health outcomes' in a staff meeting. In these settings, the word is professional yet carries an inherent sense of care. Moving from the hospital to the home, 'babies' is a staple of family conversation. Parents, grandparents, and siblings use it to talk about the youngest members of the family. You might hear someone at a family gathering ask, 'How are the babies doing?' referring to a set of twins or cousins who are close in age. In this context, the word is warm, familiar, and often accompanied by a sense of pride or affection. It is also common in social settings like parks or playgroups, where parents compare notes on their 'babies' milestones,' such as when they started sleeping through the night or eating solid foods.
- Medical Context
- Used by healthcare professionals to discuss neonatal care, pediatrics, and infant health statistics.
The research study focuses on how babies develop language skills in bilingual households.
In the commercial world, 'babies' is a key demographic for marketing. You will see the word on signs in department stores ('Clothes for Babies'), on packaging for consumer goods ('Safe for Babies'), and in television advertisements for everything from diapers to life insurance. Marketers use the word to appeal to the protective instincts of parents. In the news, 'babies' often appears in stories about public health, education, or human interest. Headlines might read, 'New Program Supports Low-Income Babies' or 'Record Number of Babies Born on New Year's Day.' Here, the word is used to humanize data and draw attention to the needs of the most vulnerable members of society. Additionally, you will hear the word in the world of nature and wildlife. Documentaries often feature 'baby animals,' though they may use the plural 'babies' to describe a litter of kittens or a group of hatchlings. For example, 'The mother sea turtle leaves her babies to find their own way to the ocean.'
- Commercial Context
- A major category in retail and advertising, focusing on products and services for infants.
The store has a massive sale on all items for babies this weekend.
Pop culture is another place where 'babies' is frequently heard. Songs, movies, and TV shows often revolve around the arrival of babies or the challenges of raising them. Think of the classic film 'Three Men and a Baby' or the countless sitcom episodes dedicated to a 'baby shower.' In music, the word 'baby' is often used as a term of endearment, but the plural 'babies' is less common in this sense, usually appearing when the lyrics refer to actual children. For instance, a song might mention 'having babies and settling down.' In professional environments, the metaphorical use is quite common. A software developer might say, 'I've been working on these two babies for months,' referring to two new applications. This shows how the word has been adapted to describe anything that requires intense care and has been 'born' from someone's effort. Whether you're in a boardroom, a nursery, or a movie theater, 'babies' is a word that connects to the core of human life and creativity.
- Pop Culture
- Frequently used in storylines involving family dynamics, growth, and the comedy of parenting.
The movie is a heartwarming comedy about three friends who unexpectedly have to care for two babies.
The wildlife photographer spent years documenting how different species raise their babies.
In the spring, the farm is full of babies, from lambs to chicks.
One of the most frequent errors associated with the word babies is spelling. Because many English plurals are formed by simply adding 's' (like 'cats' or 'dogs'), learners often write 'babys.' However, the rule for nouns ending in a consonant plus 'y' requires changing the 'y' to 'i' and adding 'es.' This is a fundamental spelling rule that applies to many common words, and failing to follow it is a clear marker of a non-native or developing writer. Another common mistake involves the use of the apostrophe. People often confuse the plural 'babies' with the singular possessive 'baby's' or the plural possessive 'babies'.' For example, writing 'The babies toys' without an apostrophe is incorrect; it should be 'The babies' toys' if the toys belong to multiple infants. Conversely, writing 'The baby's are sleeping' is a common error where the possessive form is used instead of the simple plural. These punctuation errors can significantly change the meaning of a sentence or simply make it look unprofessional.
- Spelling Error
- Incorrect: 'babys'. Correct: 'babies'. Always remember the 'y to ies' rule for consonant-y endings.
Incorrect: The babys are crying. Correct: The babies are crying.
Another mistake is the over-extension of the word 'babies' to older children. While there is no strict cutoff, 'babies' generally refers to children who cannot yet walk or talk fluently. Referring to a group of five-year-olds as 'babies' might be seen as condescending or simply inaccurate, unless used as a term of endearment by a parent. In professional or educational settings, it is better to use 'toddlers,' 'preschoolers,' or 'children' for older age groups. Additionally, learners sometimes struggle with the distinction between 'babies' and 'infants.' While they are often used interchangeably, 'infants' is more formal and clinical. Using 'babies' in a formal medical research paper might be considered slightly too informal, whereas using 'infants' in a casual conversation might sound overly stiff. Understanding the 'register' or level of formality is key to using the word correctly in different social contexts.
- Punctuation Confusion
- Confusion between 'babies' (plural), 'baby's' (singular possessive), and 'babies'' (plural possessive).
Incorrect: The baby's are in the nursery. Correct: The babies are in the nursery.
Finally, there is the potential for confusion with the word 'babes.' While 'babes' is technically an older plural form of 'babe,' in modern English, it is almost exclusively used as a slang term for attractive people or as a very informal term of endearment between friends or romantic partners. Using 'babes' when you mean 'babies' (infants) can lead to awkward misunderstandings. For example, saying 'I love looking at babes in the park' has a very different meaning than 'I love looking at babies in the park.' Similarly, the word 'baby' is often used in the singular as a term of endearment ('Hey baby'), but using 'babies' in the plural for this purpose is rare and can sound strange. Mastering these subtle distinctions in meaning, spelling, and social usage will help you avoid common pitfalls and communicate more effectively in English.
- Register and Context
- Using 'babies' in a highly clinical report where 'infants' or 'neonates' is expected, or vice versa.
Incorrect: The study analyzed the babies' heart rates. (Too informal for some journals). Better: The study analyzed the infants' heart rates.
The babies were all born within the same week.
Are those babies twins or just siblings?
While babies is the most common and versatile term for very young children, English offers several alternatives that vary in formality, precision, and emotional tone. The most frequent synonym is 'infants.' This word is slightly more formal and is often used in medical, legal, or academic contexts. For example, a hospital might have an 'Infant Care Unit' rather than a 'Baby Care Unit.' Another term is 'newborns,' which specifically refers to babies in their first few weeks of life. This is a more precise term than 'babies,' which can cover children up to two years old. In a scientific or medical setting, you might encounter the word 'neonates,' which specifically refers to infants in their first 28 days. This is a highly technical term and would rarely be used in casual conversation. On the more informal and affectionate side, people often use terms like 'little ones,' 'bundles of joy,' or 'tiny tots.' These phrases carry a warm, sentimental tone and are common in cards, social media posts, and family talk.
- Infants vs. Babies
- 'Infants' is more formal and clinical; 'babies' is more common and warm. Both refer to the same age group.
The infants in the study showed a marked preference for their mothers' faces.
As babies grow, the terminology shifts. Once a baby starts to walk (usually around 12 months), they are often called 'toddlers.' This word is more specific than 'babies' and highlights a new developmental stage. Using 'toddlers' instead of 'babies' shows a more nuanced understanding of child development. In the context of animals, while 'babies' is acceptable, using the specific name for the young of a species is more precise. For example, 'puppies' for dogs, 'kittens' for cats, 'cubs' for bears or lions, and 'calves' for cows or elephants. Using these specific terms demonstrates a higher level of vocabulary. In a more general biological sense, the word 'offspring' can be used to refer to the young of any organism, including humans. 'Offspring' is a neutral, scientific term that can refer to children of any age, not just babies. Another related term is 'progeny,' which is very formal and often used in literature or legal contexts to refer to descendants.
- Newborns vs. Neonates
- 'Newborns' is a general term for very young babies; 'neonates' is the specific medical term for the first 28 days of life.
The newborns were kept in a specialized warming unit for their first few hours.
In some dialects or older literature, you might see the word 'bairns' (common in Scotland and Northern England) or 'papoose' (historically used for Native American babies, though now often considered dated or culturally sensitive). Understanding these variations helps in reading diverse texts. Furthermore, when talking about babies in a collective sense, you might use 'the next generation' or 'the youth,' though these terms cover a much broader age range. In the figurative sense, 'babies' can be replaced by 'projects,' 'brainchildren,' or 'creations.' For example, 'These three apps are my brainchildren' carries a similar meaning to 'These three apps are my babies,' but sounds slightly more sophisticated. By expanding your vocabulary to include these alternatives, you can tailor your language to be more precise, professional, or emotionally resonant depending on the situation.
- Toddlers vs. Babies
- 'Toddlers' are children who have begun to walk (usually 1-3 years old), whereas 'babies' are typically younger.
The playground has separate areas for babies and toddlers to ensure safety.
The little ones were fast asleep after a long day at the beach.
The queen's offspring were all present at the royal ceremony.
How Formal Is It?
재미있는 사실
The word 'baby' is one of the few words that sounds similar in many unrelated languages (like 'baba' or 'papa') because it mimics early infant vocalizations.
발음 가이드
- Pronouncing the final 's' as a sharp 's' instead of a voiced 'z'.
- Shortening the first 'a' sound to a short 'a' like in 'bat'.
- Pronouncing the 'ie' as a short 'i' sound.
- Missing the 'y' to 'i' transition in the middle.
- Over-emphasizing the second syllable.
난이도
The word is very common and easy to recognize in text.
The 'y to ies' spelling rule and the plural possessive apostrophe can be tricky.
Pronunciation is straightforward, but the final 'z' sound is often missed.
Easily understood in most contexts due to its distinct sound.
다음에 무엇을 배울까
선수 학습
다음에 배울 것
고급
알아야 할 문법
Pluralization of nouns ending in consonant + y
baby -> babies, city -> cities, lady -> ladies
Plural possessive apostrophe
The babies' toys (belongs to multiple babies)
Subject-verb agreement with plural nouns
The babies are (not is) crying.
Zero article for general plurals
Babies need sleep. (General truth)
Attributive nouns
Baby clothes (singular 'baby' used as an adjective for plural 'clothes')
수준별 예문
The babies are very cute.
Les bébés sont très mignons.
Plural subject 'babies' takes the plural verb 'are'.
I see three babies in the park.
Je vois trois bébés dans le parc.
Use 'babies' for any number greater than one.
Do the babies like milk?
Est-ce que les bébés aiment le lait ?
Question form using 'do' for plural subjects.
The babies are sleeping now.
Les bébés dorment maintenant.
Present continuous tense for plural subject.
She has two babies.
Elle a deux bébés.
Direct object of the verb 'has'.
The babies have small hands.
Les bébés ont de petites mains.
Plural subject 'babies' takes 'have'.
Where are the babies?
Où sont les bébés ?
Interrogative sentence with plural 'are'.
Look at those happy babies!
Regarde ces bébés heureux !
Demonstrative 'those' used with plural 'babies'.
The babies are playing with their toys.
Les bébés jouent avec leurs jouets.
Possessive adjective 'their' refers back to 'babies'.
Most babies start to crawl at eight months.
La plupart des bébés commencent à ramper à huit mois.
General statement using plural 'babies' without an article.
We need to buy diapers for the babies.
Nous devons acheter des couches pour les bébés.
Prepositional phrase 'for the babies'.
The babies' room is painted blue.
La chambre des bébés est peinte en bleu.
Plural possessive 'babies'' with the apostrophe after the 's'.
Are those babies twins?
Est-ce que ces bébés sont des jumeaux ?
Plural demonstrative 'those' and plural noun 'twins'.
The doctor is checking the babies today.
Le médecin examine les bébés aujourd'hui.
Definite article 'the' refers to specific babies.
Babies cry when they are hungry.
Les bébés pleurent quand ils ont faim.
Zero article for general truths about babies.
She loves looking after babies.
Elle adore s'occuper des bébés.
Gerund 'looking after' followed by plural object.
Healthy babies usually double their birth weight quickly.
Les bébés en bonne santé doublent généralement leur poids de naissance rapidement.
Adjective 'healthy' modifying the plural noun 'babies'.
The nursery is specially designed for newborn babies.
La pouponnière est spécialement conçue pour les nouveau-nés.
Compound-like structure 'newborn babies'.
Many parents worry about their babies' sleep patterns.
De nombreux parents s'inquiètent des cycles de sommeil de leurs bébés.
Plural possessive 'babies'' used correctly.
The documentary showed how animals protect their babies.
Le documentaire a montré comment les animaux protègent leurs petits.
Using 'babies' in a general biological context.
It is important to vaccinate babies against common diseases.
Il est important de vacciner les bébés contre les maladies courantes.
Infinitive phrase 'to vaccinate babies'.
The store sells a wide range of products for babies.
Le magasin vend une large gamme de produits pour bébés.
Collective use of 'babies' in a commercial context.
Some babies are more fussy than others.
Certains bébés sont plus difficiles que d'autres.
Comparative structure 'more... than'.
We attended a party for all the new babies in the neighborhood.
Nous avons assisté à une fête pour tous les nouveaux bébés du quartier.
Quantifier 'all the' used with plural 'babies'.
The study analyzed the cognitive development of 200 babies.
L'étude a analysé le développement cognitif de 200 bébés.
Formal use of 'babies' in a research context.
The government is introducing new subsidies for families with babies.
Le gouvernement met en place de nouvelles subventions pour les familles ayant des bébés.
Using 'babies' in a socio-economic context.
The author uses babies as a symbol of hope in the novel.
L'auteur utilise les bébés comme symbole d'espoir dans le roman.
Figurative/symbolic use of the noun.
The hospital has a specialized unit for premature babies.
L'hôpital dispose d'une unité spécialisée pour les bébés prématurés.
Specific adjective 'premature' modifying 'babies'.
Environmental toxins can have a lasting impact on babies' health.
Les toxines environnementales peuvent avoir un impact durable sur la santé des bébés.
Complex sentence structure with plural possessive.
He treats his vintage cars like they are his babies.
Il traite ses voitures de collection comme si c'étaient ses bébés.
Metaphorical use to show extreme care and affection.
The drop in the number of babies born is a concern for economists.
La baisse du nombre de bébés nés est une préoccupation pour les économistes.
Noun phrase 'number of babies born' as a subject.
Babies' brains are incredibly plastic and capable of rapid learning.
Le cerveau des bébés est incroyablement plastique et capable d'un apprentissage rapide.
Scientific generalization with plural possessive.
The ethical implications of editing the genes of babies are widely debated.
Les implications éthiques de la modification des gènes des bébés font l'objet d'un large débat.
Using 'babies' in a high-level bioethical discussion.
The marketing campaign targets the anxieties of parents with newborn babies.
La campagne de marketing cible les angoisses des parents de nouveau-nés.
Analyzing the psychological use of the word in commerce.
The prevalence of 'baby schema' explains why humans find babies so appealing.
La prévalence du 'schéma du bébé' explique pourquoi les humains trouvent les bébés si attirants.
Technical psychological context.
Societies are often judged by how they treat their most vulnerable babies.
Les sociétés sont souvent jugées à la manière dont elles traitent leurs bébés les plus vulnérables.
Philosophical/sociological use of the term.
The poet juxtaposes the innocence of babies with the ravages of war.
Le poète juxtapose l'innocence des bébés aux ravages de la guerre.
Literary analysis of the word as a symbol.
The legislation aims to protect babies from second-hand smoke exposure.
La législation vise à protéger les bébés de l'exposition à la fumée secondaire.
Formal legal/public health context.
He refers to his collection of rare manuscripts as his 'babies'.
Il qualifie sa collection de manuscrits rares de ses 'bébés'.
Nuanced metaphorical use in a professional setting.
The longitudinal study tracked the health outcomes of babies born in the 1990s.
L'étude longitudinale a suivi les résultats de santé des bébés nés dans les années 1990.
Complex academic sentence structure.
The ontological status of babies has been a subject of philosophical inquiry for centuries.
Le statut ontologique des bébés est un sujet d'enquête philosophique depuis des siècles.
Highly abstract philosophical context.
The transition from 'it' to 'he' or 'she' when referring to babies reflects shifting social norms.
Le passage de 'it' à 'il' ou 'elle' pour désigner les bébés reflète l'évolution des normes sociales.
Linguistic analysis of the word and its pronouns.
In the grand tapestry of human evolution, the prolonged dependency of babies is a unique trait.
Dans la grande tapisserie de l'évolution humaine, la dépendance prolongée des bébés est un trait unique.
Evolutionary biology context with sophisticated phrasing.
The film explores the visceral terror and profound joy that babies can elicit in their caregivers.
Le film explore la terreur viscérale et la joie profonde que les bébés peuvent susciter chez leurs soignants.
Advanced cinematic/psychological analysis.
The commodification of babies' needs in late-stage capitalism is a recurring theme in his work.
La marchandisation des besoins des bébés dans le capitalisme tardif est un thème récurrent de son œuvre.
Socio-political critique using the term.
The author deconstructs the idealized image of babies often found in Victorian literature.
L'auteur déconstruit l'image idéalisée des bébés que l'on trouve souvent dans la littérature victorienne.
Literary deconstruction and historical context.
The neuroplasticity of babies' brains provides a window into the very nature of human consciousness.
La neuroplasticité du cerveau des bébés offre une fenêtre sur la nature même de la conscience humaine.
Advanced scientific/philosophical intersection.
She guards her research findings like a mother hawk guards her babies.
Elle protège les résultats de ses recherches comme une maman faucon protège ses petits.
Sophisticated simile using the word.
자주 쓰는 조합
자주 쓰는 구문
— The process of giving birth to and raising children.
They are thinking about having babies next year.
— To care for or babysit infants.
She has a lot of experience looking after babies.
— A phrase sometimes used to describe the natural state of infancy.
All humans are born to be babies before they become adults.
— Comparing someone's behavior to that of an infant (often negatively).
Stop acting like babies and solve the problem!
— The act of ensuring the safety of infants.
The law is designed to protect the babies.
— A phrase covering the first few years of childhood.
The park has a section for babies and toddlers.
— The act of giving milk or food to infants.
He is busy feeding the babies right now.
— Sleeping very deeply and peacefully.
After the long hike, they were all sleeping like babies.
자주 혼동되는 단어
Often used as slang for attractive people or a romantic term, not for infants.
Refers to children who can walk, usually older than babies.
A more formal synonym, often used in medical contexts.
관용어 및 표현
— To lose valuable things while trying to get rid of something unwanted.
We need to fix the system, but let's not throw the baby out with the bathwater.
informal/business— To sleep very soundly and peacefully.
I was so tired that I slept like a baby last night.
neutral— Extremely smooth to the touch.
After the polish, the car's surface was as smooth as a baby's bottom.
informal— Small, cautious steps toward a goal.
We are making progress, but it's just baby steps for now.
neutral— An innocent or naive person in a difficult or dangerous situation.
He's a babe in the woods when it comes to corporate politics.
literary/informal— To cry very hard or without restraint.
He cried like a baby when his favorite team lost.
informal— To leave someone with the responsibility for something difficult.
When the project failed, his partners left him holding the baby.
informal/UK— The standard question asked about newborn babies.
They just had their babies! Is it a boy or a girl?
neutral— The youngest child in a family.
Even though he's thirty, he's still the baby of the family.
informal— A phrase used to describe politicians trying to win favor with the public.
The candidate spent the afternoon shaking hands and kissing the babies.
political/informal혼동하기 쉬운
Incorrect pluralization.
'Babies' is the only correct plural spelling of 'baby'.
Incorrect: Three babys. Correct: Three babies.
Confusion between plural and possessive.
'Baby's' is singular possessive; 'babies' is plural.
The baby's bottle (one baby). The babies are here (many babies).
Confusion between plural and plural possessive.
'Babies' is just the plural; 'babies'' is plural possessive.
I see the babies. The babies' toys are on the floor.
Regional dialect.
'Bairns' is used in Scotland/Northern England; 'babies' is standard English.
The bairns are playing (Dialect). The babies are playing (Standard).
Synonym with different register.
'Offspring' is more formal/biological and can refer to any age.
The bird's offspring. The woman's babies.
문장 패턴
The babies are [adjective].
The babies are small.
The babies are [verb-ing].
The babies are sleeping.
Babies need [noun] to [verb].
Babies need milk to grow.
The development of babies is influenced by [noun].
The development of babies is influenced by nutrition.
While babies are [adjective], they also possess [noun].
While babies are vulnerable, they also possess remarkable learning abilities.
The societal perception of babies reflects [abstract noun].
The societal perception of babies reflects our collective values regarding the future.
How are the babies?
How are the babies doing today?
There are [number] babies.
There are four babies in the room.
어휘 가족
명사
동사
형용사
관련
사용법
Extremely high in daily life, healthcare, and marketing.
-
Writing 'babys' instead of 'babies'.
→
babies
Nouns ending in consonant + y change to ies in the plural.
-
Using 'baby's' for the plural.
→
babies
The apostrophe-s is for possession, not for making a word plural.
-
Saying 'The babies is sleeping'.
→
The babies are sleeping.
Plural subjects require plural verbs.
-
Calling a 5-year-old a 'baby'.
→
child
Babies are usually under 2 years old. Using it for older children can be incorrect or rude.
-
Confusing 'babies' with 'babes'.
→
babies
'Babes' is usually slang for attractive people, not infants.
팁
The Y-to-IES Rule
Always remember to drop the 'y' and add 'ies' for the plural. This is one of the most common spelling tests in English.
Apostrophe Placement
Put the apostrophe after the 's' for plural possession: 'babies' toys'. Put it before the 's' for singular: 'baby's toy'.
Formal vs. Informal
Use 'infants' in your essays and 'babies' when talking to your friends. It shows you understand social register.
Voicing the Z
The 's' at the end of 'babies' should sound like a 'z'. Practice saying 'beez' to get the sound right.
Animal Babies
While 'babies' works for animals, learning specific names like 'puppies' or 'calves' will make you sound more like a native speaker.
General Statements
When making general claims, use 'Babies' without 'the'. Example: 'Babies need love.' Not 'The babies need love.'
Medical Precision
In a hospital, 'newborns' or 'neonates' are often used for very young babies to be more precise.
Cherished Projects
Don't be afraid to call your favorite projects your 'babies' in a creative or business context.
Plural vs. Singular
Listen for the 'z' sound at the end to know if the speaker is talking about one baby or many babies.
Baby Showers
If you are invited to a 'baby shower,' it is a party for a baby that hasn't been born yet!
암기하기
기억법
Think of 'Babies' as 'B-A-B-I-E-S': Beautiful And Bouncy Infants Enjoying Sleep.
시각적 연상
Imagine a row of identical cribs in a hospital nursery, each with a small, sleeping infant.
Word Web
챌린지
Try to write a paragraph using the word 'babies' at least five times, including one possessive form ('babies'').
어원
The word 'babies' comes from the Middle English 'babi,' which is a diminutive of 'babe.' The root 'ba' is thought to be an imitation of the first sounds infants make.
원래 의미: A very young child of either sex.
Germanic (English)문화적 맥락
Be careful when using 'babies' for older children, as it can be seen as patronizing. Also, be aware of the formal preference for 'infants' in professional settings.
In the UK and US, there is a strong culture of 'baby-proofing' homes to keep babies safe from accidents.
실생활에서 연습하기
실제 사용 상황
Family Life
- Raising babies is hard work.
- The babies are growing so fast.
- We need more diapers for the babies.
- The babies are finally asleep.
Medical/Healthcare
- The babies' health is our priority.
- Vaccinating babies is essential.
- The babies were born healthy.
- Neonatal care for premature babies.
Shopping/Retail
- Where is the section for babies?
- Do you have this in size for babies?
- Safe toys for babies.
- Organic food for babies.
Nature/Animals
- The bird is feeding its babies.
- Look at the baby animals!
- Protecting the babies from predators.
- How many babies did the cat have?
Business/Metaphorical
- These projects are my babies.
- Nurturing new business babies.
- Don't let the babies fail.
- He's very protective of his babies.
대화 시작하기
"How many babies were born in your family recently?"
"Do you think it's difficult to look after two babies at once?"
"What are some common gifts for new babies in your culture?"
"Do you prefer the term 'babies' or 'infants' in formal writing?"
"Have you ever seen baby animals in the wild?"
일기 주제
Describe a time you had to look after babies and what you learned from the experience.
Write about the importance of protecting babies in our society.
If you had a 'business baby' (a project), what would it be and how would you nurture it?
Compare the lives of babies today with how you imagine babies lived 100 years ago.
Discuss the challenges and joys that babies bring to a family.
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문Yes, in standard English, 'babies' is the only correct plural form. The word 'babes' exists but is used in different contexts, such as slang or literature.
Generally, 'babies' refers to children from birth until they start walking and talking well, usually around 12 to 24 months.
Yes, you can say 'baby birds' or 'baby animals.' However, using specific terms like 'cubs' or 'kittens' is often more precise.
If something belongs to multiple babies, you add an apostrophe after the 's': 'babies''. For example, 'the babies' nursery'.
'Infants' is more formal and clinical, while 'babies' is more common and warm. They refer to the same age group.
It is always 'two babies.' You must use the plural form when there is more than one.
Babies are usually called toddlers once they start 'toddling' or walking, typically around one year of age.
The singular 'baby' can be a verb ('to baby someone'), but the plural verb form 'babies' is rare. Example: 'She babies her children too much.'
Yes, 'babies' is a countable noun. You can say 'one baby,' 'two babies,' 'many babies,' etc.
This is a standard English spelling rule for nouns ending in a consonant followed by 'y'. It helps maintain consistent pronunciation.
셀프 테스트 200 질문
Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) about a visit to a hospital nursery.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Explain the difference between 'babies' and 'toddlers' in your own words.
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Write a sentence using the plural possessive form 'babies''.
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Describe a project you have worked on that you consider your 'baby'. Why?
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Discuss the importance of early childhood nutrition for babies.
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Write a short story (5-6 sentences) about two twin babies.
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Compare the use of 'babies' and 'infants' in different contexts.
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Write a dialogue between two parents talking about their babies.
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What are some common challenges of raising babies in a big city?
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Analyze the idiom 'throw the baby out with the bathwater'.
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Write an advertisement for a store that sells products for babies.
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How do different cultures celebrate the birth of babies?
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Write a formal email to a pediatrician about two babies' checkups.
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Describe the physical features of newborn babies.
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Discuss the role of 'babies' in literature as symbols of innocence.
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Write a set of instructions for a new babysitter.
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What are the benefits of babies being exposed to multiple languages?
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Write a poem about sleeping babies.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Discuss the impact of the 'baby boom' on modern society.
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Explain the 'y to ies' spelling rule with examples.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Describe your favorite memory involving babies.
Read this aloud:
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Talk about the responsibilities of a parent with newborn babies.
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Explain the idiom 'sleep like a baby' and give an example.
Read this aloud:
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Discuss why some people refer to their projects as their 'babies'.
Read this aloud:
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Compare how babies are raised in your culture versus another culture.
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What are the most important things babies need in their first year?
Read this aloud:
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How do you feel when you hear babies crying in a public place?
Read this aloud:
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Describe a 'baby shower' to someone who has never heard of one.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Discuss the pros and cons of having twin babies.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Explain the 'y to ies' spelling rule out loud with three examples.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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What is your opinion on the 'baby boom' generation?
Read this aloud:
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If you were a babysitter, what activities would you do with the babies?
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Talk about the development of babies' brains in the first few months.
Read this aloud:
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Why is the word 'babies' so common in marketing and advertising?
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Describe the cutest babies you have ever seen.
Read this aloud:
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How has the way we talk about babies changed over time?
Read this aloud:
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What advice would you give to new parents of twin babies?
Read this aloud:
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Discuss the ethical issues surrounding 'designer babies'.
Read this aloud:
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Tell a short story about two babies who were best friends.
Read this aloud:
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Why do you think humans find babies so appealing?
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Listen to the description: 'The nursery was quiet, with five infants sleeping in their cradles.' How many babies are there?
Listen: 'The babies' toys were all made of wood.' Who do the toys belong to?
Listen: 'The doctor specialized in neonatal care for premature babies.' What kind of babies does the doctor help?
Listen: 'We need to buy more diapers for the babies.' What is the speaker planning to do?
Listen: 'The twins are such happy babies.' What is the relationship between the babies?
Listen: 'Don't throw the baby out with the bathwater when you revise the plan.' Is the speaker talking about a real baby?
Listen: 'The babies are starting to crawl.' What developmental stage are they in?
Listen: 'The hospital nursery has three new arrivals today.' What does 'arrivals' mean here?
Listen: 'She treats her vintage books like her babies.' How does she feel about her books?
Listen: 'The babies' room is painted yellow.' How many babies live in the room?
Listen: 'The documentary focused on how penguins raise their babies.' What animal is being discussed?
Listen: 'The baby boom led to a sudden need for more schools.' Why were more schools needed?
Listen: 'The babies were born in the same week.' What is the timing of their births?
Listen: 'Neonates are particularly vulnerable to infections.' What is a 'neonate'?
Listen: 'The babies are finally asleep, so we can talk quietly.' Why does the speaker want to talk quietly?
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word 'babies' is a versatile plural noun used to describe human infants, young animals, and cherished personal projects. It is essential to remember the spelling change from 'baby' to 'babies' and its association with vulnerability and growth. Example: 'The hospital nursery was full of sleeping babies.'
- Babies is the plural of baby, referring to humans in their earliest stage of life, usually before they can walk or talk fluently.
- The word is also used generally for the young of many animal species, such as baby birds, kittens, or puppies.
- Metaphorically, 'babies' can describe projects, businesses, or inventions that someone has created and nurtured with great personal care.
- Grammatically, it follows the 'y to ies' pluralization rule and requires plural verb agreement and specific possessive punctuation.
The Y-to-IES Rule
Always remember to drop the 'y' and add 'ies' for the plural. This is one of the most common spelling tests in English.
Apostrophe Placement
Put the apostrophe after the 's' for plural possession: 'babies' toys'. Put it before the 's' for singular: 'baby's toy'.
Formal vs. Informal
Use 'infants' in your essays and 'babies' when talking to your friends. It shows you understand social register.
Voicing the Z
The 's' at the end of 'babies' should sound like a 'z'. Practice saying 'beez' to get the sound right.
예시
The twin babies were born three weeks early.
관련 콘텐츠
People 관련 단어
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adolescents
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adsciant
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adults
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