Common Speaking Mistake: ‘information are’ Explained

If you have ever said or written “information are,” you have made one of the most frequent speaking mistakes in English. The direct answer is that “information” is an uncountable noun, so it always takes a singular verb. The correct form is “information is,” never “information are.” This guide explains why this error happens, how to fix it, and how to use the word naturally in conversations, emails, and formal writing.

Quick Answer: Use ‘Information Is’

Always pair “information” with a singular verb. Do not use “information are” in any context, whether you are speaking casually with friends or writing a professional email. The word “information” does not have a plural form in standard English. If you need to refer to multiple pieces of data, use phrases like “pieces of information,” “items of information,” or “bits of information.”

Why ‘Information Are’ Is a Mistake

Many learners make this error because “information” sounds like it should be plural. It refers to many facts, details, or data points, so the instinct is to treat it like a countable noun such as “fact” or “detail.” However, in English, “information” is an uncountable noun, similar to “water,” “advice,” or “knowledge.” Uncountable nouns do not take a plural form and always use singular verbs.

Common Confusion with Countable Nouns

Compare these pairs to see the difference:

• Correct: The information is clear. (uncountable)
• Incorrect: The information are clear.
• Correct: The facts are clear. (countable plural)
• Correct: The details are clear. (countable plural)

When you use “information,” think of it as a single mass or collection, not as individual items you can count.

Formal vs. Informal Contexts

The rule “information is” applies in all contexts. There is no informal exception where “information are” becomes acceptable. However, the way you phrase sentences around “information” can change based on tone.

Formal Writing and Emails

In formal writing, such as business emails, academic papers, or official reports, always use “information is.” You can also use phrases like “the information provided” or “this information.”

• Formal email: The information you requested is attached.
• Formal report: All the information in this document is confidential.

Casual Conversation

In everyday speech, the same rule applies. Native speakers never say “information are.” If you hear someone make this mistake, it is usually a non-native speaker or a very rare dialectal variation.

• Casual: That information is really helpful, thanks.
• Casual: Is there any new information about the meeting?

Comparison Table: ‘Information’ vs. Countable Nouns

Notice that “data” can sometimes take “are” in very technical or scientific contexts, but “information” never does. Stick with “information is” in all situations.

Natural Examples

Read these natural sentences aloud to train your ear. They all use “information” correctly.

• Could you send me the information I asked for? It is in your inbox.
• This information is not available to the public.
• All the information we have is based on recent studies.
• Is there enough information to make a decision?
• The information on the website is updated weekly.
• I need more information before I can help you.
• That information is exactly what I was looking for.

Common Mistakes

Here are the most frequent errors learners make with “information,” along with corrections.

Mistake 1: Using ‘Information Are’

• Incorrect: The information are stored in the database.
• Correct: The information is stored in the database.

Mistake 2: Using ‘Informations’

• Incorrect: I have several informations to share.
• Correct: I have several pieces of information to share.

Mistake 3: Using ‘Many Information’

• Incorrect: There are many information on this topic.
• Correct: There is a lot of information on this topic.

Mistake 4: Using ‘Fewer Information’

• Incorrect: We need fewer information to proceed.
• Correct: We need less information to proceed.

Better Alternatives: How to Talk About Multiple Pieces of Information

When you need to emphasize that there are multiple individual facts or details, do not try to pluralize “information.” Use these natural alternatives instead.

Use ‘Pieces of Information’

This is the most common and natural way to refer to multiple items.

• I collected three important pieces of information from the meeting.
• Each piece of information must be verified.

Use ‘Items of Information’

This is slightly more formal but perfectly correct.

• The report contains several items of information that are relevant.
• We need to organize these items of information by date.

Use ‘Bits of Information’

This is more casual and works well in conversation.

• I picked up a few bits of information from the news.
• Can you share any bits of information about the project?

Use a Countable Synonym

Sometimes you can replace “information” with a countable word like “fact,” “detail,” or “data point.”

• Instead of: I have several information.
• Say: I have several facts.
• Instead of: The information are listed below.
• Say: The details are listed below.

When to Use ‘Information’ vs. Other Words

Choosing the right word can also help you avoid the “information are” mistake. Here is a quick guide.

Use ‘Information’ When

• You are talking about knowledge or facts in general.
• The exact number of items is not important.
• You want a neutral, formal, or professional tone.

Use ‘Facts’ or ‘Details’ When

• You can count the individual items.
• You want to emphasize specific points.
• You are listing or comparing things.

Mini Practice: Test Yourself

Choose the correct option for each sentence. Answers are below.

1. The information you gave me (is / are) very useful.
2. There (is / are) several pieces of information in the file.
3. I need (less / fewer) information to finish the report.
4. All the information (has / have) been checked.

Answers

1. is – “Information” is uncountable, so use the singular verb.
2. are – “Pieces” is countable and plural, so use “are.”
3. less – “Information” is uncountable, so use “less” instead of “fewer.”
4. has – “Information” is uncountable, so use “has” (singular).

FAQ: Common Questions About ‘Information’

1. Is ‘information’ ever used as a plural noun?

No. In standard English, “information” is always uncountable and takes a singular verb. You will never see “informations” in correct formal or informal writing. Some very old or specialized texts might use “informations,” but this is not accepted in modern English.

2. Can I say ‘an information’?

No. Because “information” is uncountable, you cannot use the indefinite article “a” or “an” directly before it. Instead, say “a piece of information” or “some information.”

• Incorrect: I have an information for you.
• Correct: I have a piece of information for you.
• Correct: I have some information for you.

3. What about ‘data’? Is it the same as ‘information’?

“Data” is similar but has a different rule. In everyday English, “data” is often treated as uncountable and takes a singular verb: “The data is ready.” In very technical or scientific writing, “data” is treated as the plural of “datum” and takes a plural verb: “The data are analyzed.” However, “information” never takes a plural verb, even in technical contexts.

4. How can I remember to use ‘information is’?

Think of “information” like “water.” You would never say “waters are” when talking about a single body of water. Similarly, you never say “information are.” Practice by writing the phrase “information is” five times every day for a week. Also, listen for the correct usage in movies, podcasts, and news reports.

Final Tips for Speaking and Writing

To avoid this common speaking mistake, keep these three rules in mind.

• Always use “information is” – never “information are.”
• Never add an “s” to “information.”
• Use “piece of,” “bit of,” or “item of” when you need to count.

If you catch yourself about to say “information are,” stop and replace it with “information is.” With consistent practice, the correct form will become automatic. For more help with similar grammar issues, explore our Grammar Accuracy Checks section. If you have questions about this guide, visit our FAQ page or contact us. You can also review our Editorial Policy to understand how we create these resources. For corrections on other speaking errors, check our Speaking Mistake Fixes category.