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Count and Non-Count Nouns

Definition

Nouns are divided into two groups; nouns that can be counted, and nouns that cannot be counted.

Example

I have five DVDs on my desk. (count)

I have paper on my desk. (non-count)

Explanation

Count nouns —

• can be counted (1 DVD, 2 DVDs, 3 DVDs ...).
• have singular and plural forms (1 DVD, 2 DVDs , 3 DVDs).
• use -s or -es in plural forms.
• use definite articles and indefinite articles.

Non-count nouns —

• cannot be counted (memory, software, bandwidth).
• have only one form (memory, software, bandwidth); NOT “1 memory, 2 softwares, 3 bandwidths”.
• are followed by a singular verb.
• can be counted by using “of” (“a piece of software or a sheet of paper”)
• use definite articles or no article.