answersLogoWhite

0

The correct plural of trade union, is 'trade unions' (meaning more than one trade union).

The form 'trades union' is historical, going back to the early unions which would be formed with workers from more than one trade (hence 'trades'). This then later changed as unions became more specific to particular trades to simply 'trade union'. It could be argued that this has swung the other way these days with unions taking people from many different 'trades', however the form 'trade union' has stuck.

There are exceptions though, so the TUC (Trades Union Congress), is written that way simply because they wanted to keep to the older, perhaps traditional, meaning.

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago

Still curious? Ask our experts.

Chat with our AI personalities

JordanJordan
Looking for a career mentor? I've seen my fair share of shake-ups.
Chat with Jordan
RafaRafa
There's no fun in playing it safe. Why not try something a little unhinged?
Chat with Rafa
ViviVivi
Your ride-or-die bestie who's seen you through every high and low.
Chat with Vivi

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: What is the plural form of 'trade union'?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp