“Leafs” and “leaves” are two words that often confuse English learners. While they look like possible plural forms of the word “leaf,” only one of them is correct in most cases.

This is a great example of a common spelling mistake in English. In this post, we’ll explore which one you should use and why — with examples, grammar tips, and a short quiz.

What Does “Leaves” Mean?

“Leaves” is the correct plural form of the noun leaf (a flat green part of a plant). It is also the third-person singular form of the verb leave.

Examples:

• “In autumn, the leaves fall from the trees.”
• “She leaves the office at 5 p.m. every day.”

What Does “Leafs” Mean?

“Leafs” is not the correct plural form of “leaf” in standard English. The only correct usage of “Leafs” is as a proper noun — the name of the Canadian hockey team:

• “The Toronto Maple Leafs played a great game.”

In all other contexts, using “leafs” as a plural is incorrect and should be avoided.

Key Differences: Leafs vs Leaves

Word	Type	Meaning	Correct Use
Leaves	Plural noun / verb	Plural of “leaf” / third person of “leave”	“The leaves are falling.”
Leafs	Proper noun (name)	Hockey team only	“The Maple Leafs won again!”

Common Mistakes

• ❌ Writing “leafs” when referring to multiple leaves on a tree.
• ✅ “Leaves” is the correct plural in all general cases.
• ⚠️ Only use “Leafs” when referring to the Toronto Maple Leafs (proper noun).

Easy Tricks to Remember

• 🍁 Leaves = the plural of leaf (used in nature).
• 🏒 Leafs = ONLY the hockey team.
• 🧠 Tip: If you're not talking about hockey, use “leaves.”

Quick Practice Exercise

Select the correct word for each sentence:

1. In the fall, the --Choose-- leafs leaves change color.
2. The Toronto Maple --Choose-- leaves leafs are a Canadian hockey team.
3. She --Choose-- leafs leaves work at 6 o’clock.
4. I picked up some --Choose-- leafs leaves from the ground.

Check Answers

Bonus Resources

• Explore more spelling mistakes on AulaPlanet → Full category
• Cambridge Dictionary: “Leaf” and “Leaves” definitions
• Toronto Maple Leafs – Official Website

Conclusion

The correct plural of “leaf” is always “leaves” — unless you’re talking about the Toronto Maple Leafs. Be sure to use “leaves” in writing about plants, seasons, and grammar. Avoid “leafs” unless you’re a hockey fan!

📲 Keep improving your spelling by exploring more lessons at AulaPlanet!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)