Topic Areas

Things You Can / Can't Count

Count Nouns and Noncount Nouns

Noncount Nouns

Noncount nouns take the singular form of the verb. Remember to use both 'some' and any' when discussing specific objects in your home or office.

Example:

Jim makes sure he has some money in his bank account.

There always seems to be an order to be confirmed when she arrives at work each morning.

The order to be confirmed requires a large amount of money.

Do not use determiners (a, the, these, etc.) when speaking in general.

Example:

Production costs can be reduced by use of good manufacturing practices.

The start-up costs are high.

Count Nouns

Count nouns take the plural form of the verb. Remember to use both 'some' and any' when discussing specific objects in your home or office.

Example:

There are some questions on the pre-tax profit that I need to raise at the meeting today.

The teller will need to explain the shortages to her superior.

The total value of his personal property is over one $100,000.

Do not use determiners (a, the, these, etc.) when speaking in general. Use the plural form of count nouns to discuss these objects in general.

Example:

Government bonds are mostly a secure investment.

Majority interest is an important consideration.

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Purchase English for Business and Commerce

Key Phrases
take-over bid
Value at market price
Account activity
Safety deposit box
Liquid assets
Majority interest
Fixed costs
Protest a bill
Adjustable-Rate Mortgage
Official discount rate
Stock dividend
Owner’s equity
Affiliated company
On receipt of the order
Accrual
limited liability company
Appraisal
Long-term financing
Capital assets
Withholding tax

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