Software vs. Softwares – Which is Correct?
The correct term is software. It is an uncountable noun, meaning it does not have a plural form like “softwares.” Always use “software” when referring to one or many programs or applications.
Software or Softwares – Which is Correct?
When discussing computer programs and applications, the correct term is always “software.” The word “software” is a mass noun, also known as an uncountable noun, much like “water,” “information,” or “furniture.” This means it does not take an “s” to form a plural. “Softwares” is an incorrect pluralization and should be avoided in all contexts. The root cause of this confusion often stems from treating “software” as a count noun, similar to “program” or “application,” which do have plural forms.
| Word | Part of Speech | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software | Noun (uncountable) | The programs and other operating information used by a computer. | The company released new software to improve productivity. |
| Softwares | Incorrect | An erroneous plural form of “software.” | Using “softwares” is grammatically incorrect. |
How to Use Software
“Software” refers to the entire collection of programs, procedures, and routines associated with the operation of a computer system. It is always treated as a singular entity, even when referring to multiple applications. You would say “this software is good” or “the software runs smoothly,” regardless of whether you’re talking about one program or a suite of programs. It maintains a formal and consistent tone across all professional and technical writing.
Example 1: Our IT department is responsible for managing all the software on the company’s servers.
Example 2: Before installing new software, always check for compatibility with your operating system.
Example 3: The latest update for the design software includes several new features.
What are the different forms of Software?
As an uncountable noun, “software” does not have different plural forms. It remains “software” whether you are referring to a single program or many. To indicate a quantity or variety, one might use phrases like “pieces of software,” “types of software,” or “software programs.”
Etymology of the word Software
The term “software” was coined in 1957 by American mathematician and computer scientist John Wilder Tukey. It was created as an antonym to “hardware,” referring to the non-physical components of a computer system, as opposed to the physical machinery. The word combines “soft” (implying something that can be changed or modified easily, unlike rigid hardware) and “ware” (as in “computerware” or “firmware,” denoting products or articles).
Related Concepts
Understanding the distinction between countable and uncountable nouns is crucial for correctly using words like “software.” Countable nouns (e.g., “apple,” “chair,” “program”) can be counted and have singular and plural forms. Uncountable nouns (e.g., “water,” “information,” “advice,” “furniture,” “software”) cannot be counted individually and typically do not have a plural form. They are always treated as singular and do not take indefinite articles like “a” or “an” directly before them. Instead, you might use quantifiers like “some,” “much,” or phrases like “a piece of.”
Examples from Media and Literature
- “The machine needs new software to run the latest applications.” – Common technical documentation
- “We’re not just building software; we’re building solutions.” – Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple Inc.
- “Good software is like a good book; it gets better with every read.” – A paraphrased sentiment from various tech forums
- “The new operating system comes with a suite of pre-installed software.” – Technology news article
- “Many companies are investing heavily in enterprise resource planning (ERP) software.” – Business magazine
Software Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Program | A set of instructions written in a computer language to perform a specific task. |
| Application (App) | A self-contained program or piece of software designed to fulfill a particular purpose. |
| Code | The instructions that make up a computer program. |
| System | A set of computer programs and associated data. |
| Utility | Software designed to help analyze, configure, optimize or maintain a computer. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: Can I say “a software” or “many softwares”?
No, neither “a software” nor “many softwares” is grammatically correct. As “software” is an uncountable noun, you cannot use “a/an” directly before it. Instead, you might say “a piece of software” or “a software program.” For multiple items, use “many pieces of software” or “many software programs.”
Question 2: Is there ever a context where “softwares” is acceptable?
In extremely rare and informal contexts, some might use “softwares” to refer to distinct types or categories of software, but this is not standard English and is generally considered incorrect. Stick to “software” or more precise terms like “software applications” or “software products.”
Question 3: How do I make “software” plural if it’s uncountable?
You don’t pluralize “software” directly. To indicate plurality or multiple instances, use quantifying phrases such as “types of software,” “versions of software,” “suites of software,” or “software programs/applications.” For example, “We offer various types of software” is correct, not “We offer various softwares.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, the correct term in all standard English contexts is “software.” It functions as an uncountable noun and therefore does not take a plural “s.” The form “softwares” is grammatically incorrect and should be avoided. By consistently using “software” correctly, you demonstrate a strong command of the English language and maintain professionalism in your communication, especially in technical and business environments.
