Software vs. Softwares – Which is Correct?
The distinction between “software” and “softwares” is straightforward: “software” is the correct and universally accepted term. It functions as an uncountable (mass) noun, meaning it does not typically take a plural form. “Softwares” is considered grammatically incorrect in standard English.
Software or Softwares – Which is Correct?
The correct term is “software.” The word “softwares” is generally considered incorrect in standard English. The root cause of this confusion often stems from treating “software” like a countable noun, similar to “applications” or “programs.” However, “software” is a mass noun, much like “information,” “advice,” or “equipment,” which do not typically have a plural form.
Think of it like this: you wouldn’t say “informations” or “equipments” when referring to multiple pieces of information or equipment. Similarly, when you mean multiple types or instances of software, you still use “software” or more specific terms like “software programs” or “software applications.”
| Word | Part of Speech | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software | Noun (uncountable) | The programs and other operating information used by a computer. | The new software greatly improved our productivity. |
| Softwares | Incorrect | Grammatically incorrect pluralization of “software.” | (Incorrect) We installed several new softwares today. |
How to Use Software
“Software” refers collectively to the programs, procedures, and routines that operate a computer system. It’s a broad term encompassing everything from operating systems and applications to utilities and drivers. As an uncountable noun, it is always treated as singular. This usage is consistent across all formal and informal contexts.
Example 1: Our company is investing heavily in new software to streamline operations.
Example 2: The latest security software update fixed several critical vulnerabilities.
Example 3: Learning to use complex graphic design software takes time and practice.
What are the different forms of Software?
As an uncountable (mass) noun, “software” does not have different plural forms. It remains “software” whether you are referring to one type of program or many diverse applications. You cannot add an “-s” to pluralize it. To express a quantity or variety, one typically uses modifying words or phrases.
- To specify different kinds: “different types of software,” “various pieces of software,” “multiple software packages.”
- To refer to individual instances: “a piece of software,” “a software program,” “a software application.”
Etymology of the word Software
The term “software” was coined by mathematician and computer scientist John Tukey in 1957. It was created by analogy with “hardware,” referring to the non-physical components of a computer system, such as programs, instructions, and data. “Hardware” had been in use since the early 20th century to describe physical components. The “soft” prefix implies malleability and changeability, contrasting with the fixed nature of “hard” physical components.
Related Concepts
Understanding “software” as an uncountable noun is key to avoiding the “softwares” error. Uncountable nouns (also known as mass nouns) refer to things that cannot be counted individually. They do not have a plural form and are always treated as singular. Examples include “water,” “information,” “advice,” “furniture,” “knowledge,” and “equipment.”
In contrast, countable nouns refer to items that can be counted individually and thus have both singular and plural forms (e.g., “computer” / “computers,” “program” / “programs,” “file” / “files”). While you can have “many programs,” you have “much software.” This distinction is a fundamental aspect of English grammar that helps maintain clarity and correctness in communication.
Similarly, mastering other common grammatical distinctions, such as whose versus who’s, enhances overall writing precision.
Examples from Media and Literature
- “The company released a new version of its popular operating system software.” (News Headline)
- “He spent hours debugging the custom software he had written for the project.” (Technical Manual)
- “The rapid advancements in artificial intelligence software are transforming industries worldwide.” (Scientific Journal)
- “Her computer was bogged down with too much unused software, slowing its performance considerably.” (Tech Blog)
- “The novel explored a future where sentient software managed every aspect of daily life.” (Science Fiction Novel)
Software Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Program | A set of coded instructions that enables a computer to perform a specific task. |
| Application (App) | A complete, self-contained computer program that performs a specific function directly for the user. |
| Code | Systematic instructions or data for a computer, often referring to the source code. |
| System | An organized collection of computer hardware and software designed to achieve a specific objective. |
| Utility | Software designed to help analyze, configure, optimize or maintain a computer. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: Can “software” ever be pluralized?
No, “software” is an uncountable noun and does not have a plural form in standard English. It always remains “software,” even when referring to multiple programs or types of software.
Question 2: What should I say if I mean more than one piece of software?
You can use phrases like “multiple software applications,” “different types of software,” “several software packages,” or simply “programs.” For example, instead of “many softwares,” say “many software programs” or “many applications.”
Question 3: Is “software” always capitalized?
No, “software” is a common noun and is only capitalized if it begins a sentence or is part of a proper noun (e.g., “Microsoft Software”). Otherwise, it is written in lowercase.
Conclusion
In the “software vs. softwares” debate, “software” is unequivocally the correct term. As an uncountable noun, it functions as both singular and plural in meaning, never requiring an “-s” suffix. Understanding this grammatical rule ensures clarity and professionalism in technical and everyday communication about computing. Using “softwares” is a common error that can detract from the credibility of your writing.
Pro Tip: Always treat “software” as singular. If you need to specify multiple items, use descriptive phrases like “software applications,” “software programs,” or “pieces of software” to maintain grammatical accuracy and reinforce your professional reputation.
