Countable & Uncountable nouns (advanced)
A2 ElementaryCountable nouns refer to individual items that can be numbered, while uncountable nouns refer to substances or concepts viewed as a whole. Some nouns can function as both depending on whether they refer to a specific item or a general substance.
Overview
Countable nouns have singular and plural forms and can be used with numbers. Uncountable nouns usually have only one form and cannot be counted directly with numbers. Many nouns change meaning between these two categories; for example, a cake refers to a whole unit, while some cake refers to a portion of the substance.
Countable vs. Uncountable
Use a/an only with singular countable nouns. Use some with plural countable nouns or any uncountable noun.
| Feature | Countable (a cake) | Uncountable (some cake) |
|---|---|---|
| Plural form | Yes (cakes) | No |
| Articles | a / an / the | some / the / (no article) |
| Numbers | one cake, two cakes | Not possible |
Examples
Common mistakes
I need an advice.
I need some advice.
Advice is always uncountable in English.
She has many homeworks.
She has a lot of homework.
Homework is uncountable and does not take a plural -s.
Practice
I'm hungry. Can I have ___ apple?
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an
Answer:an
Why:Apple is a singular countable noun starting with a vowel sound, so it requires the article 'an'.
We don't have ___ milk in the fridge.
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any
Answer:any
Why:Milk is uncountable. In negative sentences, we use 'any' instead of 'some'.
The waiter brought two ___ (glass) of water.
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glasses
Answer:glasses
Why:When referring to the container, 'glass' is a countable noun and must be pluralized after the number two.