When it comes to English grammar, small choices can make a big difference. One common question is whether to use “What Kind of” or “What Kinds of.”
These phrases might seem similar, but they serve different purposes. Understanding their differences can help you improve communication and avoid common mistakes.
What Kind of
“What Kind of” is used when referring to a single category or type. It works with singular nouns or uncountable nouns. For example, if you’re asking about a specific item, like a car, you might say, “What kind of car do you drive?” This question focuses on one type of car.
In business settings, this phrase is often used to clarify preferences or requirements. For instance, “What kind of laptop do you need for work?” Here, the question is about a single type of laptop. Using “What Kind of” ensures clear communication and avoids confusion.
What Kinds of
“What Kinds of” is used when referring to multiple types or categories. It works with plural nouns. For example, if you’re exploring different categories of music, you might ask, “What kinds of music do you enjoy?” This question invites answers about rock, jazz, classical, or other genres.
In everyday conversations, this phrase helps discuss multiple types of things. For instance, “What kinds of flowers do you grow in your garden?” Here, the question is about various types of flowers. Using “What Kinds of” allows for a broader discussion.
Key Differences and Everyday Use
The main difference between “What Kind of” and “What Kinds of” lies in their focus. “What Kind of” is singular, while “What Kinds of” is plural. For example, “What kind of coffee do you like?” refers to one type of coffee, like espresso or cappuccino.
On the other hand, “What kinds of beverages do you serve?” refers to multiple types, such as tea, smoothies, and coffee.
Here’s a quick comparison table:
| Phrase | Usage | Example |
|---|---|---|
| What Kind of | Singular or uncountable nouns | “What kind of movie do you like?” |
| What Kinds of | Plural nouns | “What kinds of movies do you enjoy?” |
Understanding these differences ensures accurate and effective communication.
Contextual Understanding
Context plays a big role in choosing between “What Kind of” and “What Kinds of.” For example, if you’re discussing food, you might ask, “What kind of cuisine do you prefer?”
This question focuses on one type, like Mediterranean dishes or seafood. However, if you’re exploring multiple types, you might ask, “What kinds of activities do you enjoy?” This opens the door to answers like hiking, reading, or cooking.
In business settings, context matters too. For instance, “What kind of team do you work with?” refers to one group, while “What kinds of teams are in the tournament?” refers to multiple groups. Paying attention to context ensures clear communication.
Common Errors and Misconceptions
One common error is using “What Kind of” with plural nouns. For example, saying “What kind of books do you read?” is incorrect because books is plural.
The correct phrase is “What kinds of books do you read?” This mistake can confuse listeners and weaken your message.
Another misconception is that these phrases are interchangeable. They’re not. Using the wrong phrase can change the meaning of your sentence.
For example, “What kind of relationship do you have?” refers to one relationship, while “What kinds of relationships do you have?” refers to multiple relationships, like friendship or romantic.
Grammatical Considerations
Grammar plays a key role in using these phrases correctly. “What Kind of” pairs with singular nouns or uncountable nouns. For example, “What kind of bread do you bake?” Here, bread is uncountable.
On the other hand, “What Kinds of” pairs with plural nouns. For example, “What kinds of cars do you sell?” Here, cars is plural.
Here’s a quick guide:
- Use “What Kind of” with singular nouns (e.g., laptop, movie).
- Use “What Kinds of” with plural nouns (e.g., laptops, movies).
This ensures accurate and effective communication.
Singular Nouns with Multiple Attributes
Sometimes, singular nouns can have multiple attributes. For example, “What kind of laptop is best for gaming?” Here, laptop is singular, but the question is about its features. This usage is common in business settings and everyday conversations.
Collective Nouns
Collective nouns like team or group can also use “What Kind of.” For example, “What kind of team do you lead?” This question focuses on the type of team, such as a sales or creative team. Using “What Kind of” with collective nouns ensures clear communication.
Plural Nouns with Singular Classification
Some plural nouns represent a single category. For example, “What kinds of books do you write?” Here, books is plural, but the question is about genres like fiction, mystery, or history. This usage is common in discussions about kinds of literature.
Examples and Practical Usage
Examples with What Kind of
Here are some examples of “What Kind of” in action:
- “What kind of music do you listen to?” (Answer: rock, pop, indie)
- “What kind of weather do you prefer?” (Answer: sunny, rainy, snowy)
These examples show how “What Kind of” focuses on one type.
Examples with What Kinds of
Here are some examples of “What Kinds of” in action:
- “What kinds of movies do you watch?” (Answer: action, comedy, drama)
- “What kinds of people do you admire?” (Answer: leaders, artists, athletes)
These examples show how “What Kinds of” focuses on multiple types.
| What Kind of (Singular/Uncountable Nouns) | What Kinds of (Plural Nouns) |
|---|---|
| What kind of car do you drive? | What kinds of cars do you sell? |
| What kind of music do you enjoy? | What kinds of music are popular? |
| What kind of laptop do you recommend? | What kinds of laptops are on sale? |
| What kind of coffee do you prefer? | What kinds of coffee do they serve? |
| What kind of movie do you like? | What kinds of movies are playing? |
| What kind of book are you reading? | What kinds of books do you write? |
| What kind of food do you cook? | What kinds of food are served here? |
| What kind of flower is this? | What kinds of flowers grow in your garden? |
| What kind of weather do you like? | What kinds of weather do you experience here? |
| What kind of team do you play for? | What kinds of teams are in the league? |
| What kind of relationship do you have? | What kinds of relationships are important to you? |
| What kind of bread do you bake? | What kinds of bread are available? |
| What kind of phone do you use? | What kinds of phones are trending? |
| What kind of job are you looking for? | What kinds of jobs are in demand? |
| What kind of tea do you drink? | What kinds of tea do they offer? |
Practical Guidelines for Proper Usage
To use these phrases correctly, follow these guidelines:
- Use “What Kind of” with singular nouns or uncountable nouns.
- Use “What Kinds of” with plural nouns.
- Pay attention to context to ensure clear communication.
- Avoid using “What Kind of” with plural nouns.
By following these tips, you can improve communication and avoid common errors.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between “What Kind of” and “What Kinds of” is essential for effective communication. By paying attention to singular or plural nouns and context, you can use these phrases correctly.
Whether you’re discussing music, food, or relationships, these guidelines will help you ensure accurate and clear communication. Practice with the examples provided, and you’ll master these phrases in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a specific rule for using “What Kind of” versus “What Kinds of”?
Yes. Use “What Kind of” with singular nouns and “What Kinds of” with plural nouns.
What is the difference between kind and kinds?
Kind refers to one type, while kinds refers to multiple types.
Do we say what kind or which kind?
Both are correct, but “What Kind” is more common in everyday conversations.
How do you use kinds of?
Use “What Kinds of” with plural nouns, like “What kinds of books do you read?”
Is it this kind of books or these kinds of books?
The correct phrase is “These kinds of books” because books is plural.
Mr. Downing is a distinguished writer with a PhD in English and 27 years of experience as an Associate Professor teaching English. His profound expertise in language and literature enables him to produce erudite, meticulously researched compositions. Passionate about articulate expression, he brings academic depth and a refined writing style to every piece he creates.
