A. Tools, instruments, pieces of equipment

B. Things we wear

C. Other useful words

• The graphics in this game are amazing! [pictures produced on a computer]
• When will the goods be delivered? [articles/items]
• The architect inspected the foundations [under the building] before declaring that the premises were safe. [the building itself]
• The military authorities have established their headquarters in the old Town Hall.
• The acoustics in the new opera house are near perfect. [quality of the sound]
• The contents / 'kontents'/ of the house were sold after her death.
• Looks are less important than personality in a partner.
• As you come to the outskirts of the village, there are traffic lights. Turn left there. [the beginning or end of the village]
• The stairs are a bit dangerous - be careful.
• The proceeds of the concert are going to the children's fund. [money from selling tickets]
• A terrorist has escaped from prison. Her whereabouts are unknown. [where she is]

D. Words with plural form but used mostly with singular verbs

• Names of some games: billiards, dominoes, draughts, darts, bowls, cards
• Names of subjects/activities: physics, economics, classics, gymnastics, athletics

Common mistakes

Some words look plural, or may be thought of as plural, but are not, e.g. news, spaghetti (an Italian plural form), series, means.

• Correct: The news is good. (NOT The news are good.)
• Correct: The spaghetti was delicious. (NOT The spaghetti were delicious.)
• Correct: There was a series of programmes on TV about Japan.
• Correct: Is there a cheap means of transport I could use to get there?