Nouns that can be countable or uncountable

1. Nouns that can be countable or uncountable English Grammar Compiled by Liia R�ndal Adviser: Peeter Linnam�e

2. Some nouns can be either countable or uncountable COUNTABLE Helen baked a cake for her mother. There�s a hair in my soup. Someone threw a stone at me. Jane�s peeling the potatoes. She gave me a box of chocolates.

3. Some nouns can be either countable or uncountable UNCOUNTABLE Have some cake. I must wash my hair. Is this house built of stone? Would you like some potato? I don�t eat chocolate

4. The countable noun is specific, the uncountable noun is more general COUNTABLE Rugby is a sport. That�s an old painting over there. He had an interesting life. We heard a loud noise outside. UNCOUNTABLE I don�t like sport. Is Betty good at painting? Life isn�t always easy. Your children make so much noise.

5. Some nouns can be countable or uncountable with different meanings COUNTABLE He bought a paper. (= A newspaper) UNCOUNTABLE I need some paper to write on.

6. Some nouns can be countable or uncountable with different meanings COUNTABLE Would you like a glass of juice. UNCOUNTABLE You need to buy a piece of glass for the window.

7. Some nouns can be countable or uncountable with different meanings COUNTABLE Have you got an iron? (for clothes) UNCOUNTABLE This chair is made of iron.

8. Some nouns can be countable or uncountable with different meanings COUNTABLE Your room is a mess. He switched all the lights on. How many times Ann phone? He runs a small business. UNCOUNTABLE There is no room for you. There�s more light by the window. I haven�t got any time to lose. He enjoys doing business.

9. Words for drink � UNCOUNTABLE (usually) Coffee is more expensive than tea. COUNTABLE (when we are ordering or offering drinks) Two coffees, please.

10. Thank you for your attention!