Sign inPlural-Only Nouns for intermediate learners
Here, we will discuss some nouns in the English language that are always used as a plural noun, i.e. they don't have a singular form. Let's get to it!
What Are Plural-Only Nouns?
English has some specific nouns that are typically used in the plural form and do not have a singular form. Some of the most common plural-only nouns include:
- Clothing: trousers, jeans, socks, pants, shorts
Give me back my
- Undergarments: boxers, panties, tights
I think it's better not to wear
- Eyewear: sunglasses, glasses, binoculars
With the sun rising, you better wear your
- Tools: pliers, scissors, tweezers
Try tearing it down with these
As you can see, we do not use a singular pronoun for these nouns.
- Sports: aerobics, billiards
Don't you like to play
- Courteous words: thanks, greetings, congratulations, condolences
Tip!
In English, some plural-only nouns have singular forms as well. However, their meanings are completely different. Look at the following examples:
I think I will have to buy new
Here, the sentence is referring to the eyewear people use to enhance their sight.
Could you give me a
Here, the sentence is referring to a container we use to drink liquids and it is countable.
How to Turn Plural-Only Nouns to Countable Nouns?
Plural-Only nouns can be turned into countable nouns using the phrases in the list below:
- A Pair of/Pairs of
- A Set of/Sets of
Pay attention to some examples:
They need to buy
As you can see, the noun is plural but it has come after a singular phrase.
I need to buy two
Warning!
Always remember that when referring to these nouns, we use plural pronouns and verbs. Look at the examples below:
Look at my
(Not isn't it cute..)
Mommy, I want those
(Not will you buy it for...)
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