1.212 using nouns without determiners

When you are referring to things or people in an indefinite way, you can sometimes use a noun without a determiner.

• ...raising money from industry, government, and trusts.
• Permission should be asked before visitors are invited.

Uncount nouns are usually used without a determiner.

• Health and education are matters that most voters feel strongly about.
• Wealth, like power, tends to corrupt.

For more information about uncount nouns, see paragraphs 1.24 to 1.34.

Plural nouns are used without a determiner when you are referring to all the people or things of a particular kind.

• Dogs need a regular balanced diet, not just meat.
• Are there any jobs that men can do that women can't?

Plural nouns can also be used without a determiner to refer to an unspecified number of things.

• Teachers should read stories to children.
• Cats and dogs get fleas.

For more information about plural nouns, see paragraphs 1.42 to 1.47.