Plural-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?
In English, there are some specific nouns that are almost always in plural form and do not have a singular form. Let us learn some of the most common plural-only nouns below:
- 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, I'd rather wear my
- 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
- Celebrations: thanks, hysterics, congratulations
Tip!
In English, some plural nouns can be used as singular nouns too. However, remember that 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 an item we use to see our surroundings better.
Could you give me a
Here, the sentence is referring to an item we use to drink and it is countable.
How to Turn Plural-Only Nouns to Countable Nouns?
Plural-Only nouns can be turned into countable nouns simply by using the phrases in the list below:
- A Pair of
- Pairs of
Now, let us see some examples below:
They need to but
As you can see, the noun is plural but it has come after a singular phrase.
She wants to wear those
Warning!
Always remember that when you want to refer to these nouns, you should use a plural pronoun. Look at the examples below:
Look at my
(Not isn't it cute..)
Mommy, I want those
(Not will you buy it for...)