In the DSE exam, we always come across words that have more than one meaning. Sometimes, we need to guess the hidden meaning of the words. Today, Wall Street English prepared 5 polysemy words you must know. These words have different meanings when they are in countable form and uncountable form
1. Division
When division is used as a countable noun, it means a separate part of a large organization. When we use the word as an uncountable noun, it means to separate something into groups.
e.g.
- Countable: I worked in the marketing division.
- Uncountable: There is a clear division of labor in our team.
2. Company
We all know what company means. It means an organization that sells products or services to people. However, when company becomes an uncountable noun, it has the meaning of being with a person; staying by their side.
e.g.
- Countable: He works for an advertising company.
- Uncountable: It was a long trip and I was grateful for his accompany.
3. Strength
When we use the word “strength” as a countable noun, it means a good characteristic. When it is used as an uncountable noun, it means the ability to do physical things.
e.g.
- Countable: Leadership is one of his greatest strengths.
- Uncountable: He had the strength and stamina to take the lead and win the gold medal.
4. Business
Business could mean “company” when it is used as a countable noun. When it is used as an uncountable one, it refers to the activity of buying and selling goods.
e.g.
- Countable: My older sister runs her own business in Indonesia.
- Uncountable: Business is slack these days.
5. Pepper
We all know that pepper is an ingredient that adds a spicy taste to the food when it is used as an uncountable noun. When it is a countable noun, it could mean “energy”.
e.g.
- Countable: There was plenty of pepper left in the old man.
- Uncountable: I’d like to add some pepper to the soup.
