plural only
Plural-only nouns are those that we use exclusively as plurals, though they usually refer to a single item. Despite that these objects or items (such as glasses, pants, scissors), typically mention one of that thing, because they tend to be made up of of parts, pieces and/or pairs, we treat them as “plural” in form.
Likewise, these nouns use plural verb forms, such as “are”; e.g., “where are my glasses?” uses correct English (even though the referent is one thing).
Since these “singular” items are treated as plurals, they can be tricky for English learners and native speakers to learn and master. Check out our blogs on to understand how these nouns work, and their correct use in speech and writing.
Are Glasses Singular or Plural?
Glasses are a ‘plural-only’ noun, and are only used as a plural noun. Objects that are made up of parts/pieces/pairs are called plural-only.
What’s the Plural of Pants?
Pants are a plural-only noun, with no singular noun form, since pants are made up of parts. As a singular, pants are called ‘a pair of pants’.
Are Scissors Singular or Plural?
Often called ‘a pair of scissors,’ scissors are only referred to as a plural, since it’s made up of parts.
Are Shorts Plural or Singular?
Shorts are a plural noun with no singular noun form because shorts are made of pairs.
What’s the Plural of Trousers?
Trousers is only referred to as a plural noun, and has no singular noun form.
Are Pliers Plural or Singular? What’s the Singular of Pliers?
Pliers are a plural-only noun because they are made up of parts. ‘A pair of pliers’ refers to them as a singular noun.
Are Suspenders Plural or Singular?
Suspenders are plural-only because they are made of pairs/parts/pieces. Plural-only nouns have no singular noun form.
What’s the Singular of Tongs?
Tongs are a plural-only noun, as tongs are made up of parts/pairs/pieces. ‘A pair of tongs’ refers to tongs as a singular noun.