Can "apple" be a uncountable noun?

Asked Oct 14 '16 at 07:47

Active Oct 14 '16 at 09:47

Viewed 4,754 times

teachers which one is correct in the following phrases?

Besides, I saw apple is defined as N-VAR in Collins Dictionary. And one sentence given is:

His ongoing search for the finest varieties of apple.

Can I use apples here?

Thanks a lot!

edited Oct 14 '16 at 09:47

Tlacenka

asked Oct 14 '16 at 07:47

moyeea

2

Yes, it can be uncountable. I prefer apple and blackberry in my fruit pies. – WS2 Oct 14 '16 at 08:40
2

Yes. This fruit spread tastes mostly of apple. – Dan Oct 14 '16 at 09:12
2

In addition, 1 is correct, 2 isn't. 3 is also correct (4 isn't), but has a different meaning. The stalk or pips could be "part of an apple", but if you were offering someone something to eat, you would offer them a "piece of apple". – JonLarby Oct 14 '16 at 10:02
1

It's uncountable when speaking of apple flesh, or cooked apple, as a substance. 'Varieties of apple' means varieties of that particular species of tree, so the singular is correct. – Kate Bunting Oct 14 '16 at 14:08
Related: http://english.stackexchange.com/a/122321/191178 – Laurel Oct 14 '16 at 14:30
@KateBunting Thanks so much for your kind help!!! That means "two pieces of apple" it is still a countable noun? But can I say "varieties of apples?" – moyeea Oct 14 '16 at 19:42
Related: “I like apples” vs “I like apple”? – herisson Apr 23 '17 at 04:39

0 Answers0