This post provides a list of uncountable nouns frequently used in academic writing. It follows on from the post Articles: uncountable nouns, which focused on usage. Incorrect usage of uncountable nouns is a very common mistake so it is worth reviewing them.
Common uncountable words in academic English
An online dictionary can be used to check if a noun is countable or uncountable.
- research
- information
- evidence
- advice
- work
- progress
- employment/unemployment
- data (a future post will focus more specifically on usage of the word data)
Abstract nouns
Some abstract nouns can be used as both countable and uncountable nouns. The uncountable usage is more general and the countable more specific.
Source: Cambridge Dictionary
- knowledge
- time
- education
- experience
- understanding
- training
Example: Education can provide opportunities for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. (Uncountable referring to education in general.)
Example: He received an excellent education which served him well throughout his life. (Countable referring to this person’s particular education.)
Common uncountable words related to the academic environment
- staff
- funding
- accommodation
- homework
More information
https://dictionary.cambridge.org/grammar/british-grammar/nouns-countable-and-uncountable
