In the realm of car trivia, one fact that stands out is the announcement made by Toyota in 2011 regarding the official plural of Prius. After an online vote, it was determined that the correct form to describe multiple instances of this popular hybrid vehicle would be “Prii.” This unexpected revelation quickly caught the attention of car enthusiasts and piqued the curiosity of language aficionados worldwide.
The Toyota Prius, known for its hybrid technology and fuel efficiency, has been a game-changer in the automotive industry. Since its introduction in Japan in 1997 and subsequent release in other markets, the Prius has become an icon of environmentally friendly transportation. Its distinct design and reliable performance have garnered a dedicated fan base over the years.
Amidst this backdrop, Toyota decided to engage with its customers in a unique way. In 2011, the company initiated an online poll, inviting Prius owners and enthusiasts to vote for the preferred plural form of Prius. The choices included “Prius” itself, “Priuses,” and a more unconventional option, “Prii.”
The poll quickly gained traction, and thousands of people cast their votes. After careful consideration, Toyota heeded the voice of the people and officially declared “Prii” as the correct plural form of Prius. This decision sparked widespread discussions and debates about the linguistic implications and grammatical idiosyncrasies associated with brand names.
The term “Prii” may sound unusual to those accustomed to the more traditional pluralization rules of the English language. However, it is not uncommon for brand names and foreign terms to adopt unique plural forms. This phenomenon adds a touch of linguistic diversity and intrigue to the lexicon, making it an enjoyable subject for language enthusiasts and trivia lovers alike.
This ingenious campaign by Toyota not only engaged its user base but also highlighted the brand’s commitment to involving its customers in significant decisions. By turning to the power of the internet and social media, Toyota successfully created a buzz around the Prius while fostering a sense of community among its owners and admirers.
So, the next time you find yourself in a stimulating conversation about cars or language, remember the fascinating fact that the official plural of Prius is Prii. This trivia tidbit serves as a reminder of the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of language, bridging the worlds of automotive innovation and linguistic peculiarities.
Source: Mental Floss
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