A1determiner 1K

Some

UK /["/sʌm/","/səm//sʌm/"]/ US /["/sʌm/","/səm//sʌm/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

used with uncountable nouns or plural countable nouns to mean ‘an amount of’ or ‘a number of’, when the amount or number is not given

Listen to definition

In simple words: a small amount or number of something

Examples

• Some people enjoy hiking in the mountains.
• I need some help with my homework.
• They have some interesting ideas for the project.
• Can I have some water, please?
• Some of the cookies are fresh out of the oven.

Usage notes

Use 'some' when you want to express an indefinite quantity. It is often used in questions where we expect a positive answer. Avoid using it in very formal contexts where precise quantities are required.

Grammar pattern

some + noun

Memory hint

Sounds like 'sum' — think of a small 'sum' of money.

Collocations

• some time
• some help
• some people
• some money
• some food

Synonyms

• a few
• several
• a number of
• certain
• various

Antonyms

• none

Common mistakes

• 'Some' cannot be used with plural uncountable nouns. e.g., it's wrong to say 'some rice' when referring to an unspecified quantity.
• Confusing 'some' with 'any' in negative sentences.
• Using 'some' in questions when expecting a negative response.