Definition

This term describes a type of noun that cannot be counted individually and is treated as a whole or mass, such as 'water' or 'information'.

Example

In English, 'furniture' is a noncount noun because you cannot say 'furnitures'.

Conversation

Did you know that some nouns are considered noncount?

Yeah, like 'water' and 'information', right?

Exactly! It's interesting how they don't have a plural form.

I know! It makes learning English a bit tricky sometimes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Noncount → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "count" (from Old French *conter*, meaning to count). The word "noncount" refers to something that cannot be counted or does not have a plural form.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') being applied to 'count' — this helps you remember that 'noncount' means something that cannot be counted.

Visually Confused Words