If you’ve ever paused mid-sentence wondering, “Is software singular or plural?”, you’re not alone. In tech discussions, it’s common to hear someone say “this software is outdated”, but just as often you might catch someone mistakenly saying “these softwares are outdated.”
Here’s the truth: Software is singular. It’s an uncountable noun (mass noun) in English, much like water, advice, or information. You don’t say “informations” or “advices,” and similarly, you don’t pluralize software by adding an “s.”
What’s the Plural of Software?
The short answer: There isn’t one. The correct plural of software is still just software.
This is because software represents intangible programming instructions or computer programs collectively, rather than individual countable items. While we might talk about different types of software, the word itself doesn’t morph into “softwares.”
Instead of pluralizing, we use quantifiers or descriptors:
- Examples:
- “Several types of software are incompatible.”
- “New security software is being installed.”
Why “Softwares” Is Incorrect
Some learners especially non-native speakers wonder if “softwares” plural is valid because we often refer to multiple applications. But in English, software belongs to the same category as irregular nouns that stay the same in both singular and plural form.
Think of words like “deer” or “shrimp.” Whether you’re talking about one or many, the form doesn’t change.
✅ Correct: “This software is running smoothly.”
❌ Incorrect: “These softwares are running smoothly.”
Software as Singular vs. Plural in Real Usage
Here’s a simple breakdown:
✅ Software Used as Singular Noun
- “The software is compatible with both Mac and PC.”
- “Our software has been updated.”
✅ Software Used in Plural Context (Without Changing Form)
- “Different software programs are available for editing videos.”
- “Multiple software solutions exist for customer tracking.”
Notice how we add words like “programs” or “solutions” instead of pluralizing software itself.
Email Scenario Examples
Example 1: Singular Use (Correct)
Subject: Update on Your New Software Installation
Hi Emily,
I wanted to let you know that the software is fully installed and ready for use. This program integrates smoothly with your existing systems. If you face any issues, our team will assist right away.
Best regards,
Lucas Grant
IT Support Lead
Example 2: Incorrect Use (for Clarity)
Subject: Your Softwares Are Updated (❌)
Hi James,
Your softwares are updated and ready. (This phrasing sounds awkward and is grammatically incorrect. It should be “software is updated.”)
Best,
Priya Kapoor
Technical Specialist
Software vs. Hardware: Why It Matters in Grammar
Understanding software vs. hardware helps clarify this rule. Hardware refers to physical, countable items like a keyboard or hard drive. Naturally, you can say “keyboards” or “monitors.”
But software isn’t tangible. It’s more like a set of instructions stored digitally making it uncountable. You wouldn’t ask for “three waters” unless you mean bottles of water; similarly, you wouldn’t ask for “three softwares.”
Origin of the Word “Software”
Interestingly, software was coined as a playful contrast to hardware in the 20th century. Its roots even stretch back to 1851, when “softwares” referred to fabrics! Over time, the tech world adopted the term metaphorically to describe intangible operations or programs, aligning with its singular noun form.
Clear Rules & Patterns: How to Treat Software
- Do: Use software as singular in formal and casual contexts.
- Don’t: Say “softwares” in standard English.
- Instead: Pair it with descriptors like “applications,” “types,” or “solutions.”
- Remember: Software is an irregular noun that stays the same in singular and plural contexts.
Quick Reference Table
| Correct Usage | Incorrect Usage |
|---|---|
| This software is excellent. | These softwares are excellent. |
| New software was installed. | New softwares were installed. |
| Many types of software exist. | Many softwares exist. |
Synonyms You Can Use Instead
If you want to avoid repetition, try alternatives:
- Program (e.g., “This program runs on Windows.”)
- Application/App (e.g., “That app simplifies scheduling.”)
- System (e.g., “Their billing system is outdated.”)
- Freeware/Shareware (e.g., “This freeware is open-source.”)
These fit naturally in tech conversations and help clarify meaning.
Practical Memory Tip
Think of software like “furniture.” You don’t say “furnitures,” even when referring to multiple chairs and tables. Instead, you say “pieces of furniture” or in our case, “types of software.”
Final Takeaway
So, is software plural or singular? It’s singular, but it also functions as an uncountable noun where the plural form doesn’t change. While tech discussions often involve multiple programs, the correct expression is “different types of software” not “softwares.”
Next time you write an email or discuss tech updates, remember: software is like water uncountable, singular in form, but referring to a broad category.
