Plural of Journey: Is it Journeys or Journies?

If you’ve ever paused while writing and wondered whether the plural of journey is journeys or journies, you’re not alone. This question confuses many English learners and even native speakers. The English language is packed with quirky rules, and pluralization is one area where small spelling differences can make a big impact.

In this article, we’ll break down the correct plural of “journey”, explore English spelling rules, highlight common mistakes, and even share real-world examples so you can use the term confidently.

Why Is There Confusion About Journeys or Journies?

The confusion around journeys vs. journies stems from the general rule for words ending in -y. Typically:

• If a word ends in y preceded by a consonant, you change y to -ies.
  Example: city → cities, baby → babies.
• If a word ends in y preceded by a vowel, you simply add -s.
  Example: key → keys, toy → toys, journey → journeys.

The issue arises because many learners assume all words ending in -y change to -ies in the plural form. That’s not the case here. Since the y in journey follows the vowel “e”, the correct plural is journeys, not journies.

Journeys or Journies: The Correct Plural of Journey

So, what is the correct plural of journey?
✅ The answer: journeys.

Rule Recap:
When the y follows a vowel, you add “s” without changing y.

Examples:

• journey → journeys
• key → keys
• boy → boys
• toy → toys

By contrast, for words like baby, party, or city, where y follows a consonant, the plural becomes -ies (e.g., babies, parties, cities).

Quick Rule Table for Words Ending in Y

Word Ending	Plural Rule	Example
Vowel + y	Add s	journey → journeys
Consonant + y	Change y to ies	city → cities

What Does Journey Mean?

The word journey refers to traveling from one place to another, typically over a long distance. It can also carry a metaphorical meaning, like a personal or emotional path toward growth or self-discovery.

Literal Journey Example:

• We took a long journey through the mountains last summer.

Metaphorical Journey Example:

• Her journey toward success was filled with challenges and triumphs.

The richness of the term is what makes it popular in travel writing, personal development blogs, and literature.

Examples in Context

To really master usage, let’s see journeys in action:

Travel Context

• We embarked on several unforgettable journeys across Europe last year.
• Their journeys through the desert were both thrilling and exhausting.

Metaphorical Usage

• The book details the journeys of individuals seeking happiness and purpose.
• Their journeys toward personal growth have inspired thousands worldwide.

Historical or Fictional Context

• The journeys of Marco Polo opened new paths to Asia.
• In the novel, the hero’s journeys reveal deep secrets about his past.

Words That Follow the Same Rule as Journeys

Here are some other words where y follows a vowel, so the plural is formed by adding -s:

• key → keys
• boy → boys
• toy → toys
• alley → alleys
• valley → valleys
• monkey → monkeys
• ray → rays

Synonyms for Journey (To Keep Your Writing Fresh)

Sometimes, you might want a synonym instead of repeating “journey.” Here are common alternatives:

• Trip – We planned a weekend trip to the mountains.
• Voyage – The voyage across the Atlantic lasted two weeks.
• Expedition – The scientists started an expedition to the Arctic.
• Adventure – Their jungle adventure was thrilling.
• Quest – The knight’s quest for the crown was legendary.
• Tour – They went on a guided tour of historic landmarks.
• Trek – Their trek through the Himalayas tested their endurance.
• Odyssey – His life’s odyssey was full of twists and turns.

Common Mistakes & Fixes

Here are frequent errors people make—and how to correct them:

• ❌ I read about the hero’s journies in the book.
  ✅ I read about the hero’s journeys in the book.
• ❌ They took many exciting journies last summer.
  ✅ They took many exciting journeys last summer.

Email Scenario Examples

Example 1: Travel Blog Email

Subject: Share Your Most Memorable Journeys
Body:
Hi Emily,
We’re collecting stories about your most exciting journeys—whether it’s across the globe or within yourself. Reply to this email and let us know about your unforgettable experiences!

Example 2: Business Email

Subject: Document Your Project Journeys
Body:
Dear Team,
Please submit summaries of your project journeys by Friday. Include milestones, challenges, and outcomes for a detailed report.

Etymology of Journey

The word journey dates back to the 12th century, from the Old French journée, meaning a day’s work or travel. It traces further to Vulgar Latin diurnum (day), derived from dies (day). Initially, it described the distance traveled in one day, but over time, its meaning broadened to include any travel or figurative path in life.

Before and After Examples

Before:
Her journies toward success was inspiring.

After:
Her journeys toward success were inspiring.

Quick Reference Table

Question	Answer
Correct plural of “journey”?	journeys
Is “journies” correct?	No
Why not “journies”?	y follows a vowel (add -s)
Rule for vowel + y words?	Add -s

Final Thoughts

The plural of journey is journeys, not journies. By remembering the y + vowel rule, you’ll avoid common spelling mistakes and write with confidence. Whether you’re describing literal travels or metaphorical paths, this word will always capture a sense of adventure and growth.