1

I've always wondered what is the correct use of 'uncountable nouns', for example 'Water', we might see a use like this:

'There is water over here'

This is different to a 'class' or 'category' name like 'pen' where we would say 'There is a pen over here'.

This suggests to me that 'Water' is more equivalent to 'a pen' then to 'pen'.

It therefore follows that such 'uncountable nouns' may have the ability to denote different objects as indefinite descriptions can, unlike 'class names' such as 'pen' which denote an abstract idea.

2
  • 1
    Yes, in English a DP can consist of only a mass noun, and that DP can then denote an entity in the real world. Does that answer your question?
    – Keelan
    Jan 14 at 19:49
  • 1
    Essentially, yes. Thanks.
    – Confused
    Jan 14 at 22:05

1 Answer 1

2

Converted from a comment:

Yes, in English a DP can consist of only a mass noun, and that DP can then denote an entity in the real world.

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.