R.I. Gen. Laws
Rhode Island General Laws

R.I. Gen. Laws § 43-3-4 (2026)

Singular and plural

✓ current as of July 2026
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Every word importing the singular number only may be construed to extend to and to include the plural number also, and every word importing the plural number only may be construed to extend to and to embrace the singular number also.

Notes of Decisions
Cited in 5 cases, 1960–2017 · leading case: Pierce v. Providence Ret. Bd., 15 A.3d 957 (R.I. 2011).
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Pierce v. Providence Ret. Bd., 15 A.3d 957 (R.I. 2011). · cites it 6× “Pierce contends that because § 17-189 does not direct a specific interpretation of “an accident,” we must turn to an applicable canon, G.L.1956 § 43-3-4, which requires that singular constructions of a word also must include plural constructions.”
State v. Ros, 973 A.2d 1148 (R.I. 2009). · cites it 2× “” G.L.1956 § 43-3-4. Indeed, this Court already has upheld a criminal conviction for discharging a firearm while committing a crime of violence, death resulting, under a theory of vicarious liability.”
Brogno v. W & J Assocs., Ltd., 698 A.2d 191 (R.I. 1997). · cites it 3× “In G.L.1956 § 43-3-4 of our General Laws, the General Assembly provided that the use of the plural and the use of the singular in our statutes are indistinguishable: “Every word importing the singular number only, may be construed to extend to and to include the plural number…”
Maureen O'Connell v. William Walmsley, 156 A.3d 422 (R.I. 2017). “In fact, § 43-3-4, which concerns “[singular and plural” in constructing and effecting statutes, provides: “Every word importing the singular number only may be construed to extend to and to include the plural number also, and every word importing the plural number only may be…”
Rondoni v. Sherman, 158 A.2d 267 (R.I. 1960). “1956, §43-3-4, which provides: “Singular and plural.”
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