google the following text:
when to use es for plural
The machine will tell you the following (I bolded and italicized the "-x" reference below):
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The suffix "-es" is used to form the plural of most nouns that end in "-s", "-x", "-z", "-ch", or "-sh". This is generally done to maintain correct pronunciation and avoid clashing with the sound of the plural "s".
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Pronunciation: The "-es" ending is used to ensure the plural pronunciation is distinct from the singular form, especially with words ending in sounds like /s/, /z/, /ch/, etc.
General Rule: Add "-s" to most nouns to make them plural (e.g., "cats," "boxes").
Exceptions:
-o: Many words ending in "-o" add "-s" (e.g., "radios," "tomatoes"), but some add "-es" (e.g., "heroes," "potatoes").
-s, -x, -z, -ch, -sh: Nouns ending in these letters/letter combinations typically add "-es" to their plural form (e.g., "foxes," "boxes," "churches," "brushes," "classes").
-y preceded by a consonant: If the singular noun ends in "-y" that is preceded by a consonant, change the "-y" to "-i" and add "-es" (e.g., "baby" becomes "babies").