Is equipment countable or uncountable?

Usually uncountable. Say “some equipment” or “a piece of equipment.”

What is the difference between equipment and tools?

Tools are smaller items you use directly. Equipment can mean the whole set of items.

Is equipment formal or informal?

It is neutral to formal. It is common in school, business, and technical writing.

Can I say “equipments”?

No. “Equipment” is normally uncountable, so “equipments” is incorrect in standard English.

← Dictionary

equipment

/ɪˈkwɪp.mənt/

IELTSAcademic

noun

Tools, machines, or other items needed for a particular task, sport, job, or activity. It is usually uncountable.

We need safety equipment for the workshop.
The lab has new scientific equipment.
His camping equipment was in the car.

Adinary Nuance

Equipment is broader than tool or machine. Use it for the whole set of items needed for a task, especially in formal, technical, or workplace contexts. It is usually uncountable, so we say “some equipment,” not “an equipment.”

In other languages

Vietnamese: thiết bị
Spanish: equipo
Chinese: 设备
Japanese: 設備
Korean: 장비

Etymology

Equipment came into English in the 17th century from French équipement, based on équiper, meaning “to equip.” It first meant the act of fitting out someone or something, then the things used for that purpose.

Common phrases

safety equipmentsports equipmentmedical equipmentoffice equipment

Synonyms

gear apparatus kit tools

Related words

device instrument machinery supplies

Frequently asked questions

Is equipment countable or uncountable?: Usually uncountable. Say “some equipment” or “a piece of equipment.”
What is the difference between equipment and tools?: Tools are smaller items you use directly. Equipment can mean the whole set of items.
Is equipment formal or informal?: It is neutral to formal. It is common in school, business, and technical writing.
Can I say “equipments”?: No. “Equipment” is normally uncountable, so “equipments” is incorrect in standard English.