Common Speaking Mistake: ‘information are’ Explained

If you have ever said or written “information are,” you are not alone. This is one of the most frequent speaking mistakes for English learners. The direct answer is simple: “information” is an uncountable noun in English, so it always takes a singular verb. You must say “information is” or “information was,” never “information are” or “information were.” This guide explains why this rule exists, shows you how to use it correctly in conversation and writing, and helps you avoid this common error for good.

Quick Answer: Information Is Always Singular

In English, “information” is an uncountable noun. This means you cannot count it as one information, two informations, or three informations. Because it has no plural form, the verb that follows it must always be singular. Use “is” for present tense and “was” for past tense. Never use “are” or “were” with “information.”

• Correct: The information is accurate.
• Incorrect: The information are accurate.
• Correct: That information was helpful.
• Incorrect: Those information were helpful.

Why This Mistake Happens

Many languages treat “information” as a countable noun. For example, in Spanish, you can say “informaciones” (plural). In French, “informations” is common. In Italian, “informazioni” is plural. When speakers of these languages switch to English, they naturally try to apply the same rule. But English does not work that way for this word. The word “information” in English refers to a mass or collection of facts, data, or knowledge. You cannot separate it into individual units the way you can with “book” or “apple.”

Formal vs. Informal Contexts

The rule that “information” takes a singular verb applies in both formal and informal English. There is no situation where “information are” is correct. However, the way you use the word can change slightly depending on the setting.

Formal Writing and Speaking

In formal contexts such as business reports, academic papers, or professional presentations, you must use “information is” or “information was.” Using “information are” would immediately signal a grammar error and could reduce your credibility.

Formal example: The information provided in the report is essential for our decision-making process.

Informal Conversation

In everyday conversation, the same rule applies. Even when speaking casually with friends, you should say “information is.” Native speakers will notice the mistake, though they may not correct you out of politeness.

Informal example: That information is really useful for my project.

Comparison Table: Information vs. Countable Nouns

Notice that “data” is a special case. In formal academic writing, “data” is often treated as plural (the data are), but in everyday use, it is commonly treated as uncountable (the data is). “Information” does not have this flexibility. It is always uncountable.

Natural Examples in Conversation and Email

Here are real-life examples showing how to use “information” correctly in different situations.

In Conversation

• “Can you confirm that the information you gave me is still valid?”
• “All the information we need is in this folder.”
• “The information about the meeting time was sent yesterday.”
• “Is there any information about the new policy?”

In Email

• “Please let me know if the information attached is sufficient.”
• “The information regarding your account was updated this morning.”
• “I appreciate the information you shared. It is very helpful.”
• “Could you provide more information about the deadline?”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are the most frequent errors learners make with “information” and how to fix them.

Mistake 1: Using “information are”

Wrong: The information are not complete.
Right: The information is not complete.

Mistake 2: Using “informations”

Wrong: I need more informations about the project.
Right: I need more information about the project.

Mistake 3: Using “these information” or “those information”

Wrong: These information are outdated.
Right: This information is outdated.

Mistake 4: Using “many information”

Wrong: There are many information in the report.
Right: There is a lot of information in the report.

Better Alternatives and When to Use Them

Sometimes you want to talk about individual pieces of information. Since you cannot say “informations,” you need to use different words or phrases. Here are some alternatives.

Use “piece of information” when you want to count individual items. Use “detail” or “fact” when you want to refer to a specific, countable item. For example: “I need one more detail before I can decide.”

Nuance: When to Use “Data” Instead of “Information”

In professional or technical settings, you might choose “data” instead of “information.” “Data” usually refers to raw, unprocessed facts, while “information” is data that has been organized or given meaning. However, in everyday speech, the two words are often used interchangeably. Remember that “data” can be used as either singular or plural, but “information” is always singular.

Example with data: The data are stored on the server. (formal plural)
Example with data: The data is stored on the server. (informal singular)
Example with information: The information is stored on the server. (always singular)

Mini Practice: Check Your Understanding

Test yourself with these four questions. Choose the correct option for each sentence.

Question 1: The information you sent ___ very useful.
A) is
B) are
C) were

Answer: A) is

Question 2: I need more ___ about the schedule.
A) informations
B) information
C) information’s

Answer: B) information

Question 3: ___ information on the website is outdated.
A) These
B) This
C) Those

Answer: B) This

Question 4: There ___ not enough information to make a decision.
A) is
B) are
C) were

Answer: A) is

Frequently Asked Questions

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 English, except in very old or non-standard texts.

2. Can I say “a information”?

No. Because “information” is uncountable, you cannot use the article “a” before it. Instead, say “a piece of information” or simply “information.” For example: “That is a useful piece of information.”

3. What about “advice”? Is it the same as “information”?

Yes. “Advice” is also an uncountable noun in English. You say “advice is” not “advice are,” and you cannot say “advices.” The same rules apply: “a piece of advice” or “some advice.”

4. How do I know if a noun is countable or uncountable?

There is no simple rule, but you can check a dictionary. Most English dictionaries label nouns as countable (C) or uncountable (U). Common uncountable nouns include: information, advice, news, furniture, equipment, luggage, and research. When in doubt, look it up or use a phrase like “a piece of” to make it countable.

Final Tip for Speaking Naturally

To make this rule automatic, practice saying “information is” out loud several times. Write it down in sentences. When you hear someone say “information are” in a movie or conversation, notice it and correct it in your mind. Over time, the correct form will feel natural. Remember that even advanced learners sometimes slip, but with consistent practice, you can master this common speaking mistake.

For more help with similar grammar issues, explore our Grammar Accuracy Checks section. If you need help with professional writing, visit our Email Phrase Corrections page. For other speaking errors, check our Speaking Mistake Fixes category. You can also find broader tips in Better English Corrections. If you have questions about this guide, please see our FAQ page.