Introduction: Why the Singular of “Scissors” Confuses Learners
Many English learners are surprised to discover that the word “scissors” is almost always used in the plural form. You may wonder: What is the singular of scissors? Is it “scissor”? Can we say “a scissor”? Why do we say “these scissors” instead of “this scissors”?
This topic matters because words like scissors, pants, glasses, and trousers follow special grammar rules. If you use them incorrectly, your sentence may sound unnatural or confusing. In this article, we will clearly explain how “scissors” works, whether it has a singular form, and how to use it correctly in everyday English.
Is “Scissors” Singular or Plural?
The word “scissors” is grammatically plural. Even though it refers to one tool, it takes a plural verb.
These scissors are very sharp.
My scissors are on the table.
We use a plural verb like are, not is.
✅ The scissors are new.
❌ The scissors is new.
This is because scissors have two connected parts (two blades). English treats this type of object as plural.
Is There a Singular Form of “Scissors”?
Technically, the word “scissor” exists, but it is very rare in modern everyday English. You will almost never hear someone say “a scissor” when talking about the cutting tool.
Instead, when we want to talk about one tool, we say:
- a pair of scissors
I bought a new pair of scissors.
She handed me a pair of scissors.
Even though we are talking about one object, we still use the word “scissors” in the plural form. The phrase “a pair of” helps show that we mean one single tool.
Why Is “Scissors” Always Plural?
Some objects in English have two symmetrical parts joined together. Because of this structure, they are treated as plural nouns. These are sometimes called “plural-only nouns” or “pluralia tantum.”
Other common examples include:
- pants
- trousers
- shorts
- glasses (for eyes)
- pliers
- tongs
My pants are too big.
Her glasses are broken.
The pliers are in the toolbox.
All of these use plural verbs, just like “scissors.”
How to Refer to One Scissors
To refer to a single tool, use “a pair of scissors.” This is the standard and natural expression.
Examples in Sentences
Could you pass me a pair of scissors?
I need a pair of scissors to cut this paper.
This is the best pair of scissors I’ve ever used.
She found a pair of scissors in the drawer.
He packed two pairs of scissors for the art class.
Notice that:
- We say a pair of scissors (singular)
- We say two pairs of scissors (plural)
The verb agrees with “pair,” not “scissors,” when “pair” is the subject.
This pair of scissors is expensive.
These pairs of scissors are expensive.
Comparison Table: “Scissors” vs. Regular Nouns
| Type | Example | Verb | Singular Form |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular noun | A book | The book is interesting. | Book |
| Regular plural | Books | The books are interesting. | Book |
| Plural-only noun | Scissors | The scissors are sharp. | No common singular form |
| With “pair of” | A pair of scissors | This pair is sharp. | Pair (controls verb) |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Saying “a scissor”
❌ I need a scissor.
✅ I need a pair of scissors.
2. Using a singular verb
❌ The scissors is on the desk.
✅ The scissors are on the desk.
3. Forgetting Verb Agreement with “Pair”
❌ This pair of scissors are sharp.
✅ This pair of scissors is sharp.
Always check which word is the true subject of your sentence.
When Is “Scissor” Used?
In very technical or industrial contexts, “scissor” may appear as an adjective or part of a compound word:
- scissor lift
- scissor kick (in sports)
- scissor movement
However, when referring to the cutting tool, native speakers almost always use “scissors.”
Quick Summary: Key Takeaways
- “Scissors” is always grammatically plural.
- It takes a plural verb: The scissors are sharp.
- There is no commonly used singular form in everyday English.
- To talk about one tool, say “a pair of scissors.”
- When using “a pair of,” the verb agrees with “pair”: This pair is new.
- Do not say “a scissor” in normal conversation.
Conclusion
Understanding how to use “scissors” correctly helps you avoid common grammar mistakes and sound more natural in English. Although it refers to a single object, “scissors” is treated as a plural noun and always takes a plural verb. When you need to talk about one tool, simply say “a pair of scissors.”
By learning this pattern, you will also better understand other plural-only nouns like “pants,” “glasses,” and “pliers.” With practice, these special nouns will become easy and automatic to use in your everyday English.