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Research or Researches: Which is Correct? Simple English Explanations
Research or researches ? Which one is correct?!
There seems to be a lot of misinformation about this on the web, as most people (including native English speakers) get this one wrong!
We can use “research” as a noun or verb . Researches can be the third person singular of the verb “research.” Researches can also be used as a plural noun for “research,” but it is rarely used.
Meaning of Research (Verb and Noun)
By definition, “ research” (verb form) means to investigate or search carefully. It is typically related to studious inquiries or examinations.
Here are some examples with the verb “research”:
- “He researched the history of the building.”
- “She is researching how many people speak a particular language.”
- “I need to research this.”
- “We have been researching a new method.”
- “They are researching different options for the company.”
- “I researched every single product before I made my purchase.”
- You should research the pros and cons before you make a decision .
- “He is researching his family tree.”
- She has been researching her options for college.
When used as a noun, the word “research” typically refers to the activity of investigating or examining a subject in-depth with the aim of discovering new facts or information.
It can also refer to the resulting product of this activity.
Here are some examples with the noun “research”:
- “The scientists conducted research on the properties of a new material.”
- “She published her first paper on the results of her research.”
- If you want to write a paper on the dangers of smoking, you will need to do some research on the topic.
- “The research was published in a leading journal.”
- “They are funding market research.”
- “This is a new area of research for me.”
- “I need to do some research on this subject.”
- “Can you please send me your latest research?”
Research or researches?
- Research (singular noun)
- Researches (plural noun)
In a nutshell, we use research as a singular noun and researches as a plural noun, but it is very rare to say the term researches.
It is preferred to say “pieces of research,” “research studies” or “research projects” when talking about more than one.
Researches can also be used as a verb for the third person singular in the simple present tense. For example, “he researches on the internet for his school project.”
Research (simple present tense):
- I research,
- you research,
- he researches,
- she researches,
- it researches,
- we research,
- they research.
Research as a Noun
Research can be a countable and uncountable noun.
As a noun, “research” is usually used as uncountable. For example, we could say, “the research is able to determine the demand for health drinks.”
The plural countable noun researches is rarely used. It is used to distinguish between one or more sets of research.
For example, we could say “research conducted at Trinity College and University College Dublin” (we don’t know if this is a joint research project or a separate research project in both colleges).
Or we could say “researches conducted at Trinity College and University College Dublin” (separate research projects carried out at the colleges).
Is it correct to say researches ?
As you can see from our examples, it is correct to say researches.
You must be warned, however, that while we can use researches as a plural countable noun, most English speakers have never heard this and may think this is incorrect.
Native English speakers prefer to say “some research,” “research studies,” or “research projects” rather than researches nowadays.
Researches as a term is seen as archaic and old-fashioned. Therefore, it is rarely, if ever used.
Can we say a research ?
While “research” can be used as a countable and uncountable noun, it is never correct to say “a research.” However, we can say “a research student,” “much research,” or “some research.”
To make research or to do research?
We never say “make research.” Instead, you can say, “do research,” “conduct research,” “perform research,” or “carry out research.”
When do we say researches?
When using “research” as the verb, we often say researches.
It is much more common to use researches in the third person simple present (he/she/it).
For example, we could say, “he researches for his project in the library.”
Researches can also be used as a noun, as mentioned earlier.
Alternative Ways to Say Researches (noun)
- His researches prove that the disease is a genetic disorder.
- His research proves that the disease is a genetic disorder.
- His research studies prove that the disease is a genetic disorder.
- His research projects prove that the disease is a genetic disorder.
- His pieces of research prove that the disease is a genetic disorder.
- His findings prove that the disease is a genetic disorder.
- His research results prove that the disease is a genetic disorder.
How do you pronounce research ?
“Research” (verb form) is pronounced as ri-SERCH in American English but may vary across different accents.
“Research” (noun form) is pronounced as REE-serch in American English but may vary across different accents.
Therefore, you may choose to pronounce both the verb and the noun in the same way (REE-serch or ri-SERCH) without causing any confusion.
You may also be interested in: 15 Best Online English Courses Free & Paid (2022)
In Conclusion
Those are the rules for the word research and researches. While researches is a correct word, it is seldom used as a plural noun.
“Research” is mostly used as an uncountable noun or verb.
If you are unsure whether to use research or researches , it is best to use “research” as the noun. This will avoid any confusion and misunderstanding.
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Thanks for the extensive researches done by you, as we use this term research in our researches extensively!
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What’s the Plural of Research?
2-minute read
- 22nd March 2022
Research is an example of a mass noun (also known as an uncountable noun or a non-count noun ). Mass nouns can cause confusion, especially if English isn’t your first language , because they aren’t pluralized like most other nouns. In this post, we’ll explain how to use research correctly in your writing .
Research: Detailed Study
Research means the systematic study of a subject . Regardless of how much study you’re referring to, you should always use the singular form of this noun :
The research is conclusive.
The team did a great deal of research.
We cannot draw conclusions without further research .
It’s very rare for research to take the plural form. So, if you were to write “researches” in an essay or paper , it would look like a mistake. If you want to be specific about the amount of research done, we suggest using a countable noun that can be pluralized instead:
A study / 16 studies
An investigation / two investigations
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An analysis / several analyses
Alternatively, you can combine research with a countable noun:
Three separate research programs were carried out.
I did four pieces of research .
In these examples, research is still written in the singular form, but programs and pieces are plural because we’re referring to more than one of them.
Summary: What’s the Plural of Research?
Research is an example of a mass noun, and you should always write it in the singular form. There’s also a plural form (researches), but it’s very uncommon, and if you use it in your writing, it could look like a mistake.
If you need more help with spelling or word use, check out our blog for more writing tips. If you want an expert to check your writing for errors, our proofreading team is always available. You can even send us your first 500 words to be proofread for free .
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Plural of Research in English Grammar
By: Author Sophie
Posted on Last updated: October 3, 2023
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Research is an essential component of the scientific process, providing valuable insights into various fields of study. However, when it comes to referring to multiple research studies, the plural form of the word ‘research’ can be a bit tricky. In this article, we will explore the different ways to form the plural of research and provide some useful guidelines to help you navigate this grammatical challenge.
Plural of Research
Definition and Plural of Research
When it comes to writing about research, it is important to understand its definition and plural form. Research is a broad term that refers to the systematic investigation and study of a subject in order to establish facts, principles, and theories. It is an essential tool in various fields, including science, medicine, and social sciences, among others.
As for its plural form, research is considered a mass noun, which means that it does not have a specific plural form. However, in some cases, it can be used in its plural form as researches, especially when referring to different types of research or a collection of research studies.
In general, the plural form of research is not commonly used, and it is more appropriate to use the singular form when referring to the overall process of conducting research. However, when discussing specific research studies, it may be necessary to use the plural form to distinguish between different studies.
It is also worth noting that the term research can be used as a verb, meaning to engage in the process of conducting research. In this case, the verb form of research can be inflected to indicate tense and subject-verb agreement, such as researched, researching, and researches.
Overall, understanding the definition and plural form of research is essential for effectively communicating and writing about research studies. While the plural form of research is not commonly used, it may be necessary in certain contexts, and it is important to use it correctly to avoid confusion and miscommunication.
Using Research and Plural of Research in Sentences
The term “research” is used to refer to a systematic and scientific investigation of a particular topic or issue. It involves gathering and analyzing data, studying existing literature, and drawing conclusions based on the findings. The term “research” can be used as a noun or a verb. As a noun, it refers to the process of conducting research or the results of a research study. As a verb, it refers to the act of conducting research.
Plural of Research: The plural form of “research” can be a bit confusing for some people. In general, the plural of “research” is “researches.” However, this form is not commonly used. Instead, the word “research” is usually used as a collective noun to refer to multiple research studies. For example, you might say, “There have been many research studies conducted on the effects of climate change.”
Example: Here’s an example of using the term “research” and its plural form in a sentence:
“The research conducted by the team of scientists was groundbreaking, and their findings have been published in several research journals. The researches conducted in this field have led to significant advancements in our understanding of the subject.”
To form the plural of “research,” you can add an “-es” to the end of the word, resulting in “researches.” However, it is important to note that this form is not commonly used and may sound awkward in some contexts.
In conclusion, when using “research,” it is important to consider the context of the sentence to determine whether to use the singular or plural form. While “researches” is a valid plural form, it is not commonly used and may sound awkward in some contexts.
Plural Noun Rules for Regular Nouns
When it comes to regular nouns, there are some basic rules that you can follow to form the plural form. Here are some of the most common rules:
Add -s to the End of the Noun
The most common way to form the plural of a regular noun is to add -s to the end of the singular form. For example:
- Book → Books
- Pen → Pens
- Table → Tables
Add -es to the End of the Noun
If the singular noun ends in -s, -x, -z, -ch, or -sh, you need to add -es to form the plural. For example:
- Box → Boxes
- Bus → Buses
- Quiz → Quizzes
Change the Ending of the Noun
Some nouns change their ending to form the plural. Here are some examples:
- Man → Men
- Woman → Women
- Child → Children
- Foot → Feet
- Tooth → Teeth
Add -s or -es to Words Ending in -o
For words ending in -o, you can either add -s or -es to form the plural. Here are some examples:
- Potato → Potatoes
- Tomato → Tomatoes
- Radio → Radios
Add -s to Words Ending in -y
For words ending in -y, you need to change the -y to -i and add -es to form the plural. For example:
- Baby → Babies
- City → Cities
- Party → Parties
Add -s to Words Ending in a Vowel and -y
For words ending in a vowel and -y, you just need to add -s to form the plural. For example:
- Boy → Boys
- Day → Days
- Key → Keys
By following these basic rules, you can easily form the plural of regular nouns. However, keep in mind that there are some irregular nouns that do not follow these rules and need to be memorized separately.
Plural Noun Rules for Irregular Nouns
When it comes to forming plurals, most English nouns follow a simple rule of adding -s or -es at the end. However, there are some irregular nouns that don’t follow this rule. In this section, we will explore the rules for forming plurals of irregular nouns.
List of Common Irregular Plural Nouns
Here is a list of some common irregular plural nouns:
Nouns that End in Us
Nouns that end in -us usually form their plurals by changing -us to -i. For example:
Nouns that End in Is
Nouns that end in -is usually form their plurals by changing -is to -es. For example:
Nouns that End in On and Um
Nouns that end in -on or -um usually form their plurals by changing -on or -um to -a. For example:
Plurals that Are the Same as Singulars
Some nouns have the same form for both singular and plural. For example:
Collective Nouns and List
Collective nouns refer to a group of people or things, such as team, family, or committee. They can be singular or plural, depending on the context. For example:
- The team is playing well. (singular)
- The team are all wearing their uniforms. (plural)
List nouns refer to a group of items, such as furniture , luggage, or equipment. They are usually treated as singular. For example:
- The furniture is new.
- The equipment is being repaired.
Words that Look Like Plural Nouns but Are Singular Nouns
Remembering the rules for forming plurals of irregular nouns can be challenging, but with practice, you can master them.
Plural Nouns vs. Possessive Nouns
When it comes to English grammar, it’s important to understand the difference between plural nouns and possessive nouns. Plural nouns refer to more than one person, place, thing, or idea, while possessive nouns show ownership or possession of something.
Plural nouns are formed by adding -s or -es to the end of a singular noun, while possessive nouns are formed by adding an apostrophe and an -s to the end of a singular noun. For example, “book” becomes “books” in its plural form, and “book’s” or “book’s cover” in its possessive form.
It’s important to note that not all plural nouns have possessive forms. For example, the plural of “sheep” is still “sheep” and does not change in its possessive form. Similarly, some nouns that end in -s, such as “species” and “series,” do not add an -s in their possessive form.
Confusion can arise when trying to determine whether to use a plural or possessive noun in a sentence. One common mistake is using an apostrophe to make a noun plural, such as writing “apple’s” instead of “apples.” Remember, the apostrophe is only used to show possession or ownership.
Here are some examples to help clarify the difference between plural and possessive nouns:
- Plural: The dogs chased the ball.
- Possessive: The dog’s ball was chewed up.
- Plural: The children played in the park.
- Possessive: The children’s toys were scattered everywhere.
- Plural: The cars in the parking lot were all red.
- Possessive: The car’s engine was overheating.
By understanding the difference between plural and possessive nouns, you can improve your writing and avoid common grammar mistakes.
Common Mistakes with Plural Nouns
When it comes to pluralizing nouns, there are some common mistakes that people make. These mistakes can cause confusion and make your writing less clear. Here are some of the most common mistakes to watch out for:
1. Adding an apostrophe to make a noun plural
Adding an apostrophe to a noun does not make it plural. In fact, it does the opposite. An apostrophe is used to indicate possession or contraction, not pluralization. For example, “cat’s” is possessive, while “cats” is plural.
2. Using the wrong plural form
Some nouns have irregular plural forms that don’t follow the usual rules. For example, the plural of “child” is “children,” not “childs.” Similarly, the plural of “goose” is “geese,” not “gooses.”
3. Using a singular verb with a plural noun
When a noun is plural, the verb that goes with it should also be plural. For example, “The dogs bark” is correct, while “The dogs barks” is not.
4. Using a singular pronoun with a plural noun
When a noun is plural, the pronoun that goes with it should also be plural. For example, “The cats ate their food” is correct, while “The cats ate its food” is not.
5. Using an incorrect plural form of a mass noun
Mass nouns, also known as uncountable nouns, refer to things that cannot be counted. For example, “water” is a mass noun. When referring to multiple instances of a mass noun, it is incorrect to add an “s” to the end of the word. Instead, you should use a different word or phrase to indicate plurality. For example, “studies” can be used instead of “researches.”
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your writing is clear and easy to understand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the correct plural form of the word ‘research’?
The correct plural form of ‘research’ is ‘researches’. However, it is important to note that ‘research’ can also be used as a collective noun, meaning it can refer to a group of studies or investigations without needing to add an ‘s’ at the end.
Is it appropriate to use ‘researches’ as a plural form?
Yes, it is appropriate to use ‘researches’ as a plural form of ‘research’. However, it is less common than using ‘research’ as a collective noun.
How do you properly pronounce the word ‘research’?
The word ‘research’ is pronounced as “ree-search”. The stress is on the first syllable.
What is a synonym for the word ‘research’?
There are several synonyms for the word ‘research’, including investigation, study, inquiry, and examination.
The correct plural form of 'research' is 'researches'. However, it is important to note that 'research' can also be used as a collective noun, meaning it can refer to a group of studies or investigations without needing to add an 's' at the end.
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Yes, it is appropriate to use 'researches' as a plural form of 'research'. However, it is less common than using 'research' as a collective noun or adding an 's' to make it plural.
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The word 'research' is pronounced as \"ree-search\". The stress is on the first syllable.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can the word 'data' be used as both singular and plural in scientific writing?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"
Yes, the word 'data' can be used as both singular and plural in scientific writing. However, it is more common to use 'data' as a plural noun, meaning that it refers to multiple pieces of information.
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Yes, it is correct to use 'websites' as the plural form when referring to multiple websites. For example, \"I visited several websites to gather information for my research project.\"
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Research or Researches? Is Research Plural, Uncountable?
“Research,” as a noun, is a plural and singular word. It doesn’t require the same treatment as other nouns to indicate more than one. This is because you can’t put a number on “research” and have it make sense. However, you can add the –es and have it be structurally correct but incorrect in grammar.
While most nouns do require adding either an –es or an –s to indicate plurality, there is a small list of words that don’t need it. “Research” is one of these and it tends to be one of the more confusing of the bunch. Adding an –es to “Research” means you’re using the word in its form as a verb.
What is an Uncountable Noun?
Whenever you want to indicate a group or collection of something but it doesn’t have a numeric association, you will use an uncountable noun. These are often ideas that are obscure or qualities that are abstract in the physical sense. This means the object in question is either too amorphous or minuscule to count in a definable way.
Such words will always be in the singular form that can also have use in the plural. Aside from “Research,” others include “safety,” “knowledge” and “fear.”
Demonstrating “Research” as an Uncountable Noun
“Research” refers to the organized and methodical examination of documents and source materials. This is to accumulate facts for a new understanding or to help one reach a particular conclusion. Such a concept is erroneous and you can’t put a definite number on it.
- Correct: My research shows that hospitals are the third leading cause of death in the United States.
- Incorrect: My researches show that hospitals are the third leading cause of death in the United States.
In the second example, if you read it aloud it doesn’t sound right. While it is technically correct, it is grammatically incorrect. But, let’s try another example that attempts to quantify “Research” as a number.
- Grammatically Correct: There are five researches available per person.
- Incorrect: There are five research available per person.
In this example, although the “correct” version agrees in number with a plural verb, it’s technically incorrect. The “incorrect” example is wrong in context and number.
“Research,” in general,” is an uncountable noun. You can use it without adding the –es . While the –es is possible, it’s not proper grammatical structure.
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What is the Plural of Research?
What is the plural form of the word "research"? The plural form (meaning multiples) of the base word "research" is "Researches." Nouns can identify places, people, animals, and other things. They are the basic materials required to construct sentences. There are different types of nouns , including proper nouns , common nouns , compound nouns , collective nouns , abstract nouns , and countable and uncountable nouns.
What is the plural of Research?
The plural form of the word "research" is "Researches". Forming plural nouns can be difficult. To form the plural form of the word, you'll base it on the last letter or last two letters of the singular word form.
The word "research" is considered a countable and/or uncountable noun . This is different than a common noun .
Sentence examples for the plural of "Research"
- Example 1: There are multiple Researches.
- Example 2: I can see multiple Researches.
- Example 3: Over there could be more Researches.
For more examples, see the definition of the word research .
My experience with plural forms...
When it comes to plural forms, I was always confused! Just like you, I would be looking up the singular words plural formation...
Here are some really simple tricks that helps me remember plural forms:
- Did you know that most plurals are formed by adding an -s to the end of the word? Yes!
- If the noun ends in a consonant plus "–y," form the plural by swapping the "–y" for "–ies."
- If the noun ends in "–ch," "-s," "-sh," "-x," or "-z," form the plural by adding "–es."
Fact checked: Content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. Learn more.
About the author
Dalia Y.: Dalia is an English Major and linguistics expert with an additional degree in Psychology. Dalia has featured articles on Forbes, Inc, Fast Company, Grammarly, and many more. She covers English, ESL, and all things grammar on GrammarBrain.
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"What's the plural of research?"
The plural of research is researches .
Definition of research:
The systematic investigation or study of materials, sources, or subjects to establish facts and reach new conclusions.
Plural of Research Example Sentences
Single Examples:
- She conducted extensive research to gather data for her thesis.
- The scientist spent years dedicated to research in the field of genetics.
- He published a groundbreaking article based on his innovative research .
Plural Examples:
- Several researches have shown the positive effects of exercise on mental health.
- They presented their latest researches at the international conference.
- These researches provide valuable insights into climate change patterns.
https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/research
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- 1.1 Etymology
- 1.2 Pronunciation
- 1.3.1 Synonyms
- 1.3.2 Hyponyms
- 1.3.3 Derived terms
- 1.3.4 Related terms
- 1.3.5 Translations
- 1.4.1 Translations
- 1.5 References
- 1.6 Anagrams
- 2.1 Etymology
- 2.2 Pronunciation
- 2.3.1 Usage notes
- 2.3.2 Synonyms
- 3.1 Etymology
- 3.2.1 Declension
- 3.2.2 Related terms
- 3.3 See also
- 3.4 References
English [ edit ]
Etymology [ edit ].
Early Modern French rechercher ( “ to examine closely ” ) , from Old French recerchier ( “ to seek, to look for ” ) , by surface analysis , re- + search .
Pronunciation [ edit ]
- ( Received Pronunciation ) IPA ( key ) : ( traditional ) /ɹɪˈsɜːt͡ʃ/ , ( newer ) /ˈɹiː.sɜːt͡ʃ/
- Rhymes: -ɜː(ɹ)tʃ
Noun [ edit ]
research ( countable and uncountable , plural researches )
- 2012 January, Philip E. Mirowski, “Harms to Health from the Pursuit of Profits”, in American Scientist [1] , volume 100 , number 1, archived from the original on 4 April 2012 , page 87 : In an era when political leaders promise deliverance from decline through America’s purported preeminence in scientific research , the news that science is in deep trouble in the United States has been as unwelcome as a diagnosis of leukemia following the loss of health insurance.
- 1849–1861 , Thomas Babington Macaulay , chapter 1, in The History of England from the Accession of James the Second , volumes (please specify |volume=I to V) , London: Longman, Brown, Green, and Longmans , →OCLC : The dearest interests of parties have frequently been staked on the results of the researches of antiquaries.
- 1747 , The Scots magazine , volume 9, page 567 : The first step I took in this so necessary a research , was to examine the motives, the justice, the necessity and expediency of the revolution [ … ]
- 1883 December, “Zoology. A. General, including Embryology and Histology of the Vertebrata. Development of Muscle-fibres and their Union with Nerves”, in Journal of the Royal Microscopical Society , volume 3, number 6, page 821 : Although very numerous researches have been made on the differentiation of striped muscles, and on the termination of their motor nerve-fibres, yet the multifarious observations have often been too incomplete to lead to any but conflicting and unsatisfactory theories.
Synonyms [ edit ]
- investigation
- exploration
- examination
Hyponyms [ edit ]
- action research
- advocacy research
- basic research
- bioresearch
- empirical research
- historical research
- marketing research
- market research
- operational research
- operations research
- oppo research
- opposition research
- primary research
- qualitative research
- quantitative research
- scientific research
- secondary research
- space research
- structural research
- unobtrusive research
Derived terms [ edit ]
- antiresearch
- bioresearcher
- consumer research
- coresearcher
- customer research
- dual-use research of concern
- eco-research
- gain-of-function research
- nonresearch
- nonresearched
- nonresearcher
- nonresearching
- overresearched
- proresearch
- researchability
- researchable
- research assistant
- research chemical
- researchful
- researchist
- research professor
- underresearched
- unresearchability
- unresearchable
- unresearched
Related terms [ edit ]
- research octane number
- research paper
Translations [ edit ]
Verb [ edit ].
research ( third-person singular simple present researches , present participle researching , simple past and past participle researched )
- ( transitive ) To search or examine with continued care; to seek diligently.
- ( intransitive ) To make an extensive investigation into.
- ( transitive ) To search again.
References [ edit ]
- “research”, in The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language , 4th edition, Boston, Mass.: Houghton Mifflin , 2000, →ISBN .
- “ research ”, in Dictionary.com Unabridged , Dictionary.com, LLC , 1995–present.
- " research " in WordNet 2.0 , Princeton University, 2003.
Anagrams [ edit ]
- reachers , searcher
Dutch [ edit ]
From English research , from early Modern French rechercher ( “ to examine closely ” ) , from Old French recerchier ( “ to seek, to look for ” ) . Forms a doublet with Dutch recherche , which is a direct borrowing from French.
research f ( uncountable , diminutive researchje n )
Usage notes [ edit ]
The plural is very rare or non-existent.
- onderzoek , speurwerk , vorsing , navorsing
Swedish [ edit ]
Unadapted borrowing from English research . First attested in the 1960s. [1]
research c ( uncountable )
- searching in archives for background information related to someone or something specific (often for newspapers, radio, or TV).
Declension [ edit ]
- researcha ( “ perform archival research ” )
- researcher ( “ archival researcher ” )
See also [ edit ]
- efterforska ( “ investigate; research ” )
- forska ( “ research ” )
- ^ research in Svensk ordbok ( SO )
- research in Svenska Akademiens ordlista ( SAOL )
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Pronunciation [ change ]
Noun [ change ].
- The plural form of research ; more than one (kind of) research.
Verb [ change ]
- The third-person singular form of research .
- Plurals ending in "-es"
- Regular verbs
- Third-person singular forms
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Is there a plural form for 'research'?
- Thread starter cizutoca
- Start date Dec 10, 2014
- Dec 10, 2014
Is it correct to say: "I want to take part in various scientific research es ."?
Senior Member
I see no problem, generally.
Is it correct to say: "I want to take part in various scientific research es."? Click to expand...
Thanks a lot. Can the word 'research' be countable in any context at all? I see a countable form of 'research' mentioned here: http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/research Is it wrong?
cizutoca said: Is it correct to say: "I want to take part in various scientific research es ."? Click to expand...
I just did a bit of further research and see that a reputable dictionary says that it is normally uncountable, but can be countable especially in British academic contexts. I note that the example sentence the dictionary gives is: What have their researches shown? This is useful as a way of indicating that it was not referring to a single piece of research. But I still do not regard it as fully countable. I will eat my hat* if any reputable academic journal editor allowed "Prof. Smith's team did six researches last year" or "Jackson published three researches in the Journal of Periodontics last year". * Please note, I keep a a special hat made of cake for just such occasions.
[ plural ] ( formal + old-fashioned ) We read about Sigmund Freud's researches into the human psyche. Click to expand...
So, is this a feature restricted to various types of Asian English or are we observing a global change in progress? Extending the investigation of what dictionaries have to say on the topic, we can note that Longman only provides the uncountable form of research, whereas Oxford and Cambridge both mention that the plural form, researches, is used in British English. Neither of these dictionaries, however, gives the singular countable form a research. Click to expand...
Linkway said: I note that the example sentence the dictionary gives is: What have their researches shown? Click to expand...
If I were to read, "I want to take part in various scientific research es. " in an application, that application would go straight into the reject pile. Click to expand...
- Dec 11, 2014
The OED also contains references to research as a count noun: a1639 H. Wotton Surv. Educ. in Reliquiæ Wottonianæ (1672) 85 There must go before a main research, whether the Child that I am to manage, be of a good nature or no. 1822 M. Faraday Let. in P. Day Philosopher's Tree (1999) vi. 96 Your refined researches on electro-magnetism or electrodynamics. 1955 Times 7 May 9/6 Could the G.P.O. be persuaded to undertake an operational research into the use of Post Offices? 1990 M. Roberts In Red Kitchen (1991) 63 Having terminated my researches on Mr Home, I have not exhausted my interest in the subject of spiritualism. The 1630 quote is the earliest; it is hard to challenge Faraday’s 1822 quote; the 1955 might well be a reader’s letter and, significantly, the 1990 quote is from a novel set in the 19th century written by a non-scientist. There is a 2002 quote from “The Eye of the Lynx” by Freedberg and the book contains many uses of researche s : to such an extent that it might be assumed that this use was part of Freedberg’s idiolect. The conclusion, at least for me, is that the use of researches [1] is old-fashioned and should be avoided. This is supported by the Google Ngram ( CLICK HERE ) for researches,advices,guidances. It can be seen that (a) in BE, and more markedly in AE, researches has declined year on year from the 1850s, (b) advices [1] , and guidances, which are very strongly uncountable, and which should not be seen in the plural, sometimes are. [1] I can’t discount the use of researches in the sense of 'a subsequent search' or advices as in “We dealt with several sales advices.”
...] I would like to start our search for the meeting of the minds not only in the later seventeenth century, but with a most unassertive source, an apparently simple letter of introduction written by a scholar in England, at Oxford University, dated July 26, 1687. Though the language of the letter is rather formal, even neutral in tone, if we read it carefully we notice that the range of topics covered in a short space is unusual, [...] The writer of this late July letter in 1687 was a historian and linguist named Thomas Hyde, fifty-one years old at the time, a scholar of wide interests, who conducted his researches in a variety of “Oriental” languages, including Persian, Hebrew, Arabic, and Syriac. . . . Click to expand...
Perhaps none of the Hellenistic advances in science surpassed in importance the progress in medicine. Especially significant was the work of Herophilus of Chalcedon, who conducted his researches in Alexandria about the beginning of the third century. Without question he was the greatest anatomist of antiquity and, according to Galen, the first to practice human dissection. Click to expand...
John Vaughan Thompson (1779-1847) was born and grew up in Berwick. He studied Medicine at Edinburgh from 1797-98, reading anatomy, surgery, midwifery and botany. He compiled the Catalogue during this early period of his life; it displays an extensive knowledge of the plants of his native Berwick and features a small number of striking hand-coloured engravings, apparently drawn by Thompson himself. [...] In 1816 he published a second catalogue: A Catalogue of the Exotic Plants Cultivated in the Mauritius, echoing his work on the flora of Berwick - a place which we might imagine seemed a world away as he conducted his researches and compiled his lists in those tropical climes. Click to expand...
I cannot see how the plural is needed or particularly appropriate in any of the above. Researches is, as you say, "not quite dead", and I have already said as much, but the terminal decline in its use seems plain. You may agree that it would be a mistake to give hope to the OP that researches would be a good choice.
"I want to take part in various scientific research es ."? Click to expand...
An internet search on the phrase "all * researches" produces a good selection of valid modern examples.
I think it's fair to say that "researches" exists as a word, but someone for whom English is not the first language should be cautioned against using it. At best, it sounds odd - as it would in the sentence of the original post. At worst, it will be an error if it is not used carefully and with a very narrow range of possible meanings. (By the way, cizutoca, your native language is given as "x." We can't force you to tell us what it is, but we can often help you more if we have this information.)
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Meaning of research in English
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- He has dedicated his life to scientific research.
- He emphasized that all the people taking part in the research were volunteers .
- The state of Michigan has endowed three institutes to do research for industry .
- I'd like to see the research that these recommendations are founded on.
- It took months of painstaking research to write the book .
- absorptive capacity
- dream something up
- modularization
- nanotechnology
- non-imitative
- operations research
- think outside the box idiom
- think something up
- uninventive
- study What do you plan on studying in college?
- major US She majored in philosophy at Harvard.
- cram She's cramming for her history exam.
- revise UK I'm revising for tomorrow's test.
- review US We're going to review for the test tomorrow night.
- research Scientists are researching possible new treatments for cancer.
- The amount of time and money being spent on researching this disease is pitiful .
- We are researching the reproduction of elephants .
- She researched a wide variety of jobs before deciding on law .
- He researches heart disease .
- The internet has reduced the amount of time it takes to research these subjects .
- adjudication
- analytically
- interpretable
- interpretive
- interpretively
- investigate
- reinvestigate
- reinvestigation
- risk assessment
- run over/through something
- run through something
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Research | intermediate english, research | business english, examples of research, collocations with research.
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a medical student or doctor
Sitting on the fence (Newspaper idioms)
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Definition of 'research'
Video: pronunciation of research
research in British English
Research in american english, examples of 'research' in a sentence research, cobuild collocations research, trends of research.
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- resealable bag
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- do research
- aid research
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Definition of research verb from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary
- research (something) to research a topic/subject
- She's in New York researching her new book (= finding facts and information to put in it) .
- They began researching potential buyers for their product.
- The book has been meticulously/exhaustively/thoroughly researched .
- They spent days researching in the school library.
- research how, what, etc… We have to research how the product will actually be used.
- The site offers basic tips on how to research a topic.
- Students must research their chosen topic and write a dissertation.
- She spent several months researching the subject.
- She researches the history of experimental film.
- He researched the history of colonial Brazil to produce the exhibition.
- He is currently researching a biography of the writer Laurence Sterne.
- While researching this article, I discovered some fascinating facts.
- If you know what treatments are available then you can research your options.
- We spent months researching the feasibility of the idea.
- This meticulously researched volume was worth the wait.
- Everything in the film has been exhaustively researched, from the uniforms and guns down to the underwear the soldiers wear.
- The article was extensively researched, with the authors talking to hundreds of teenagers.
- This searing documentary about the atrocities of war is painstakingly researched but hard to watch.
- The book has been poorly researched.
- The experience of being a personal carer has been well researched.
- She spent some time researching what gaps there were in the childcare market.
- I researched how deaf people relate to music.
- Scientists are still researching whether or not booster shots will be needed after the initial inoculation.
- I spent two years carefully researching into his background.
- I have been researching on the internet.
- We can help you research more effectively online.
- He was researching for his thesis on Indian railways.
- exhaustively
- extensively
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research noun 1
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What does the noun research mean?
There are seven meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun research , three of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.
How common is the noun research ?
How is the noun research pronounced, british english, u.s. english, where does the noun research come from.
Earliest known use
The earliest known use of the noun research is in the late 1500s.
OED's earliest evidence for research is from 1577, in ‘F. de L'Isle’'s Legendarie .
research is apparently formed within English, by derivation; modelled on a French lexical item.
Etymons: re- prefix , search n.
Nearby entries
- rescuing, adj. 1574–
- resculpt, v. 1926–
- resculpting, n. 1940–
- rescussee, n. 1652–1823
- rescusser, n. 1632–1704
- rese, n. Old English–1600
- rese, v.¹ Old English–1450
- rese, v.² Old English–1582
- reseal, v. 1624–
- resealable, adj. 1926–
- research, n.¹ 1577–
- re-search, n.² 1605–
- research, v.¹ 1588–
- re-search, v.² 1708–
- researchable, adj. 1927–
- research and development, n. 1892–
- researched, adj. 1636–
- researcher, n. 1615–
- researchful, adj. a1834–
- research hospital, n. 1900–
- researching, n. 1611–
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Meaning & use
Pronunciation, compounds & derived words, entry history for research, n.¹.
research, n.¹ was revised in March 2010.
research, n.¹ was last modified in September 2023.
oed.com is a living text, updated every three months. Modifications may include:
- further revisions to definitions, pronunciation, etymology, headwords, variant spellings, quotations, and dates;
- new senses, phrases, and quotations.
Revisions and additions of this kind were last incorporated into research, n.¹ in September 2023.
Earlier versions of this entry were published in:
OED First Edition (1906)
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OED Second Edition (1989)
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In a nutshell, we use research as a singular noun and researches as a plural noun, but it is very rare to say the term researches. It is preferred to say "pieces of research," "research studies" or "research projects" when talking about more than one. Researches can also be used as a verb for the third person singular in the simple ...
It's very rare for research to take the plural form. So, if you were to write "researches" in an essay or paper, it would look like a mistake. If you want to be specific about the amount of research done, we suggest using a countable noun that can be pluralized instead: A study / 16 studies. An investigation / two investigations.
In general, the plural of "research" is "researches.". However, this form is not commonly used. Instead, the word "research" is usually used as a collective noun to refer to multiple research studies. For example, you might say, "There have been many research studies conducted on the effects of climate change.".
Incorrect: There are five research available per person. In this example, although the "correct" version agrees in number with a plural verb, it's technically incorrect. The "incorrect" example is wrong in context and number. Conclusion "Research," in general," is an uncountable noun. You can use it without adding the -es.
Learn how to form the plural of research and see examples of its usage. Research is a countable and/or uncountable noun that can be pluralized as researches.
Learn the meaning of research as a noun and a verb, with examples of how to use it in different contexts. Find out how to pronounce research and how to say it in other languages.
She conducted extensive research to gather data for her thesis. The scientist spent years dedicated to research in the field of genetics. He published a groundbreaking article based on his innovative research. Plural Examples: Several researches have shown the positive effects of exercise on mental health.
Learn the definition, etymology, pronunciation, and usage of the word research in English and other languages. Find synonyms, antonyms, related terms, and translations of research in different contexts.
Learn the meaning, pronunciation and examples of research noun, a careful study of a subject. Find out the plural form researches is also used in British English, but less frequent.
The plural form of research; more than one (kind of) research. Verb [change] Plain form research. Third-person singular researches. Past tense researched. Past participle researched. Present participle researching. The third-person singular form of research.
Learn how to form the plural of research, a countable or uncountable noun. Find out when to use research or researches, and see examples and synonyms.
From Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English Related topics: Education research re‧search 1 / rɪˈsɜːtʃ, ˈriːsɜːtʃ $ -ɜːr-/ S2 W1 AWL noun [uncountable] (also researches [plural] formal) 1 SE STUDY serious study of a subject, in order to discover new facts or test new ideas research into/on research into the causes of cancer Gould was helped in his researches by local ...
Users of WordReference Forums exchange opinions and examples on whether 'research' can be plural or not. Most agree that it is uncountable and rarely used in the plural, except in formal or academic contexts.
Researches definition: (rare) Plural form of research. . The researches of Liebig (1823), Liebig and Gay-Lussac (1824), and of Liebig again in 1838 showed the acid to be isomeric with cyanic acid, and probably (Hcno) 2, since it gave mixed and acid salts.
RESEARCH meaning: 1 : careful study that is done to find and report new knowledge about something often used before another noun; 2 : the activity of getting information about a subject ... plural researches. Britannica Dictionary definition of RESEARCH. 1 : careful study that is done to find and report new knowledge about something [noncount]
The noun research can be countable or uncountable.. In more general, commonly used, contexts, the plural form will also be research. The answer is: 👍. Helpful ( 0) 💡. Interesting ( 0) 😄.
Recent research on deaf children has produced some interesting findings about their speech. a research project/grant/student Research on animals has led to some important medical advances. I've done some research to find out the cheapest way of traveling there. Topic Collocations Scientific Research theory. formulate/advance a theory/hypothesis
RESEARCH meaning: 1. a detailed study of a subject, especially in order to discover (new) information or reach a…. Learn more.
2 meanings: 1. systematic investigation to establish facts or principles or to collect information on a subject 2. to carry out.... Click for more definitions.
She researches the history of experimental film. He researched the history of colonial Brazil to produce the exhibition. He is currently researching a biography of the writer Laurence Sterne. While researching this article, I discovered some fascinating facts. If you know what treatments are available then you can research your options.
The meaning of RESEARCH is studious inquiry or examination; especially : investigation or experimentation aimed at the discovery and interpretation of facts, revision of accepted theories or laws in the light of new facts, or practical application of such new or revised theories or laws. How to use research in a sentence.
The earliest known use of the noun research is in the late 1500s. OED's earliest evidence for research is from 1577, in 'F. de L'Isle''s Legendarie. research is apparently formed within English, by derivation; modelled on a French lexical item. Etymons: re- prefix, search n. See etymology. 1574-.