4.1.1: Nouns- Both Count and Noncount
- Page ID
- 269723
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Some nouns can be both count and noncount depending on the context of the sentence.
Examples of Count/Noncount Nouns
COUNT-A PARTICULAR ONE |
In the nouns below, the determiner a or an expression of quantity before the count noun expresses a particular, specific event, "true of one situation". In some cases, an adjective may be included. |
EXAMPLES |
What a life she has! (Det + N) What an easy life she has! (Det + Adj + N) |
I had an experience today. (introduction to a story) I had a good experience today. |
I have been to that restaurant three times. We had many fun times on family vacations. |
I need some paper for my printer. This cup is made of paper. |
Chickens cannot be raised in the city limits. I prepared a roast chicken for Sunday dinner. |
I ordered a coffee for myself and a tea for my husband. We would like two lattes and a cappuccino. |
NONCOUNT- A GENERAL MEANING |
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The noncount use of the equivalent (same) word expresses a more general meaning, "true for all situations or events". |
EXAMPLES |
Life is complicated. |
I have a lot of experience in hotel management. |
Time passes slowly. |
I need to bring some papers to apply for a visa. |
I ordered chicken in my favorite restaurant. |
Coffee and tea are popular breakfast drinks. We grind our own coffee. |
Complete the sentences. Use the correct forms of the nouns from the list. Then write C for count and NC for noncount.
experience life time paper coffee
- We had a wonderful experience when we went to the Amalfi Coast __C__
- The job requires _____________ in computer programming. ______
- I tried to call Mark several ____________, but he didn't answer. ______
- We have to hurry. We don't have much ____________. ______
- The ___________ of a student can be stressful. ______
- Five __________ were lost in the storm. ______
- Can you get me a large ___________ when you go to the coffee shop? ______
- Laura drinks ________________ every morning. ______
- Can you bring me some ________________ to write a shopping list? ______
- The customs agent asked me for my _________. ______
Nouns with Both Count and Noncount Uses: Grammar Quizzes by Julie Sevastopoulos is licensed for use under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 International
Exercise 1 by Allyson Marceau