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Countable And Uncountable Nouns

countable uncountable nouns

Introduction

In English there are two types of noun, countable (aka count) and uncountable (aka noncount). There is a difference in the wording that can be used with both of these and it is something that will be explained in this article.

Countable Nouns

Countable nouns can be counted using numbers:-

I have four dogs.

They can also be singular:-

I have a dog.

They are usually physical items separate from each other.

Words we can use to describe countable nouns:-

Uncountable Nouns

Uncountable nouns can’t be counted with numbers:-

  • Could you give me some water?
  • I want to give you a bit of advice.
  • I need lots of rice.

They are usually things such as:-

Activities, homework, music, sleep, work

TypeExamples
Activitieshomework, music, sleep, work
Concepts, thoughtsenthusiasm, fun, help, information, intelligence, knowledge, love, progress, wisdom
Groupsaccommodation, apparatus, equipment, food, fruit, furniture, luggage, rubbish, stuff, traffic
Substances, ingredientscheese, coffee, dirt, fat, fire, gravy, hair, honey, juice, muscle, salt, skin, tea, water

Words we can use to describe uncountable nouns:-

“A lot of” / “Not a lot of”

As you may have noticed already, “a lot of” and “not a lot of” appear in both lists and can be used for either type of noun. For this reason you may find it easier to use just these if you are struggling to remember which you can use.

Countable And Uncountable Nouns Quiz

Now test your knowledge with the quiz!

I’m so thirsty, I need … water.
I always carry at least 8 pens with me. I need … because I keep losing them!
I have 5 mobile phones now! maybe I have …
We should make it in time, although there is … traffic.
I have … information to tell you.
You have … jobs now, you must be exhausted!
I haven’t got … time now.
Can I have … of your chocolate?
I’ve got an exciting … news.
Last night I drank 7 bottles of beer, do you think it was …
Complete the form below to see results
Countable and Uncountable Nouns
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