What’s the Plural of Software? Is It “Software” or “Softwares”?

You’ve probably heard people say “softwares” at some point, especially in casual conversation or online. But is that actually correct? If you’re a student, teacher, or someone working with technology, knowing the right way to use software in singular and plural form matters more than you might expect.

This article will clear up the confusion once and for all. We’ll explore the meaning of the word, its origins, grammar rules, real-world examples, and alternatives to the controversial “softwares.” You’ll also find handy tips tailored for teachers and students, so you can sound confident and professional every time you write or speak about software.

What Does “Software” Actually Mean?

First things first: what exactly is software? In the simplest terms, software refers to the programs and operating information used by a computer. Unlike hardware—the physical parts like your keyboard or monitor—software exists as digital instructions.

Sources like Oxford English Dictionary and Merriam-Webster define software as a mass noun. This means it’s treated as a whole or an abstract concept, rather than something you can count one by one.

Think about words like water or furniture. You wouldn’t say “waters” or “furnitures” when referring to multiple kinds or pieces. Instead, you’d say “bottles of water” or “pieces of furniture.” The same applies to software—it’s a general category rather than countable objects.

So… What’s the Plural of Software?

Here’s the straightforward answer: the plural of software is just software. The word itself doesn’t change whether you’re talking about one program or many.

Saying “softwares” sounds unusual to native English speakers and is generally considered incorrect in American English. This can throw off students writing essays or teachers preparing lessons.

That said, “softwares” sometimes appears in other varieties of English, especially in some non-native contexts. For example, in parts of South Asia, “softwares” is occasionally used, but even there, it’s best avoided in formal writing or professional settings.

Origins and Grammar Behind the Word

The term “software” originated in the 1940s, as computers started becoming more widespread. At that time, it was a brand-new concept—hence, the word was created to contrast with “hardware.”

As language evolved, software became a mass noun because it refers to a whole category of programs, not discrete items you can count individually.

American English and British English generally agree on this usage. Unlike many other nouns, software does not have a traditional plural form. That’s why grammar guides always advise sticking to “software” whether you mean one or many.

Is “Softwares” Ever Technically Correct?

You might wonder if “softwares” could ever be correct. While it does appear in some non-native English contexts or in certain academic papers, this is the exception rather than the rule.

In professional settings in the USA, using “softwares” can make your writing seem unpolished or nonstandard. For example, a software developer’s resume or a business report would almost always avoid “softwares.”

However, in some languages, plural forms are added differently, and that might influence speakers to say “softwares.” For learners of English, this mistake is common and understandable but should be corrected as you gain proficiency.

What Should You Say Instead of “Softwares”?

If you want to talk about multiple software programs or products, there are plenty of grammatically correct ways to say it without using the awkward “softwares.” Here are some good alternatives:

• Software applications
  
• Types of software
  
• Software packages
  
• Programs
  
• Software products
  
• Platforms

These alternatives make your meaning clear and sound professional.

Here’s a quick comparison table showing wrong and right ways to phrase these ideas:

❌ Incorrect Phrase	✅ Correct Alternatives
We sell many softwares.	We sell many types of software.
I installed new softwares.	I installed new software tools.
Different softwares for schools.	Different software platforms for schools.

Nouns Like “Software” That Don’t Take an ‘s’

“Software” isn’t alone as a noun without a plural ‘s.’ English has many mass nouns or uncountable nouns that behave this way. Here are some common examples you might encounter in school, work, or daily life:

• Information
  
• Advice
  
• Furniture
  
• Equipment
  
• Luggage
  

These words describe things you can’t count individually without adding a measurement or unit. For example, you wouldn’t say “advices” or “furnitures.”

Here’s a simple diagram to understand:

Type of Noun	Example	Plural Form
Countable	Book	Books
Uncountable (mass)	Software	Software (no ‘s’)
Uncountable (mass)	Information	Information (no ‘s’)

Real Examples: “Software” in Sentences

Singular Usage

• “This software helps students learn languages.”
  
• “The new software update fixed several bugs.”

Plural Meaning (Using Software as Mass Noun)

• “All the software required for the project is installed.”
  
• “Our school uses multiple educational software products.”

In these examples, software stands for one or many programs, without changing its form.

Teachers and Students: What You Should Remember

If you’re a teacher, keeping this rule clear helps your students sound more natural and professional in writing and speaking.

For students, this is especially important when writing essays, reports, or resumes. Using “softwares” might lead to unnecessary deduction of marks or confusion.

A quick rule of thumb: when referring to more than one program, don’t add ‘s’ to software. Instead, use “types of software” or “software programs.”

Final Verdict: Drop the ‘S’ — Here’s Why

To sum it up, “softwares” is not standard English in the USA or most English-speaking countries. “Software” serves as both singular and plural because it’s a mass noun, not a countable one.

Using correct terms shows professionalism, especially for teachers, students, and anyone in the tech field. Remember, language is about sounding natural and clear—no need to invent new plurals where none exist.

FAQs: Quick Answers for Everyday Confusion

Can I ever use “softwares” in writing?

No, not in formal or American English. Stick to “software” or say “software applications” instead.

Why does Grammarly or Word mark “softwares” as wrong?

Because it’s not a recognized plural form. “Software” is treated like “information”—it doesn’t take an ‘s.’

Is it okay if I hear “softwares” in other countries?

Yes, but avoid it if you’re writing or speaking in American English settings.

Can I say “many software”?

No. Instead, say “many software programs” or “many types of software.”

What’s a good tip to remember?

If you wouldn’t say “furnitures” or “waters,” don’t say “softwares.”

Bonus: Cheat Sheet for Students and Teachers

Here’s a quick list of common uncountable nouns you might want to double-check before adding ‘s’:

• Advice
  
• Equipment
  
• Furniture
  
• Information
  
• Software
  
• Luggage
  

Using them correctly will instantly boost your writing’s clarity and professionalism.

Final Thought

Language evolves, but some rules stick because they make communication clearer. When it comes to software, remember that the word itself covers singular and plural ideas. Avoid adding an ‘s,’ choose your words carefully, and you’ll sound polished whether you’re writing a school paper or a professional email.