Understanding the subtle difference between “what kind of” vs “what kinds of” can significantly improve your communication and writing. While these phrases may seem interchangeable at first glance, they each serve a distinct grammatical purpose.
In this article, we’ll break down the differences, common errors, and real-world examples to help you master their usage. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of how and when to use both expressions correctly.
What Kind of: Definition and Usage
“What kind of” is a phrase used to ask about a specific type, category, or classification of something, typically followed by a singular noun. It implies that the speaker is looking for one particular category or type of an object, idea, or action. The primary focus is on singularity, suggesting that the response will involve one variety or example rather than multiple kinds. It’s a great way to narrow down options or to focus on a particular choice or preference.
Core Meaning of “What Kind of”
At its core, “what kind of” helps pinpoint a specific subset or category of a larger group. When you ask someone “What kind of car do you drive?”, you’re not asking them about all the possible cars in the world but about the specific car they own or drive. The question’s purpose is to identify one distinct type or class of something.
When and How to Use “What Kind of”
For Specific Inquiries
Use “what kind of” when you want to ask about a specific characteristic or variety of a singular item. It implies that you’re expecting a particular answer that fits within one category.
Example Sentences:
- What kind of music do you listen to?
Here, the question is about one genre of music, whether it’s rock, jazz, or classical. - What kind of laptop are you using?
This asks about one type of laptop, not multiple brands or categories.
For Preferences
When discussing personal preferences, “what kind of” is particularly useful. It allows you to ask someone about their favored type or category within a specific domain.
Example Sentences:
- What kind of coffee do you prefer?
This question narrows down a preference for a specific coffee type (espresso, latte, etc.). - What kind of food do you like to cook?
You’re asking for a specific type of cuisine, such as Italian, Mexican, or Asian.
For Describing Singular Nouns
One of the most important grammatical rules when using “what kind of” is that it is followed by a singular noun. This is because the phrase points to one kind, not multiple types.
Example Sentences:
- What kind of bird is that?
The expectation is to identify a specific bird species (e.g., robin or eagle). - What kind of flower is this?
This question asks for the name or type of a particular flower (rose, tulip, etc.).
In Questions About Abstract Concepts
“What kind of” is not limited to physical objects; it can also be used when referring to abstract concepts such as ideas, feelings, or experiences.
Example Sentences:
- What kind of advice did you give?
The focus is on a specific type of advice (e.g., financial, personal, or professional). - What kind of experience are you looking for?
Here, the inquiry is about a particular type of experience (e.g., relaxing, educational, or adventurous).
For Singular Collective Nouns
Sometimes, even when referring to a group of items, collective nouns (which treat multiple things as a single entity) can take “what kind of.” In such cases, though the subject may involve multiple elements, the collective nature of the noun makes it singular grammatically.
Example Sentences:
- What kind of team are we building?
Even though a team consists of multiple individuals, “team” is treated as singular here. - What kind of family is yours?
The question refers to the collective concept of “family” as a singular unit.
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Practical Applications of “What Kind of”
Everyday Conversations
In daily interactions, “what kind of” often comes up in casual questions that seek one specific answer. This can cover topics like preferences, recommendations, or categories of items.
Example Sentences:
- What kind of car do you recommend?
Here, you’re looking for a suggestion on one type of car—perhaps a sedan or an SUV. - What kind of shampoo should I buy?
This asks for a recommendation on a particular product (hydrating, volumizing, etc.).
In Professional Settings
In professional and formal conversations, “what kind of” can be used to define the scope or nature of a task, role, or product. It ensures clarity and specificity.
Example Sentences:
- What kind of project are you working on?
This inquiry helps specify the nature of the project (e.g., research, design, or marketing). - What kind of skills are required for this job?
The focus here is on one or a few types of skills (e.g., technical, communication, leadership).
Table: Comparison of “What Kind of” vs “What Kinds of”
| Phrase | Used For | Noun Type | Example |
| What kind of | One specific type or category | Singular noun | What kind of music do you like? |
| What kinds of | Multiple types or categories | Plural noun | What kinds of activities do you enjoy? |
Common Mistakes with “What Kind of”
1. Using It with Plural Nouns
One of the most frequent errors is using “what kind of” with plural nouns. Since this phrase is meant to inquire about one type, it must always be followed by a singular noun.
Incorrect:
- What kind of cars do you like?
(Here, “cars” is plural, so “what kinds of” should be used instead.)
Correct:
- What kinds of cars do you like?
(Since “cars” is plural, “kinds” must also be plural.)
2. Using “What Kind of” When Asking for Multiple Answers
If the question is about multiple options or categories, “what kinds of” should be used instead of “what kind of.”
Incorrect:
- What kind of sports do you play?
(Here, “sports” suggests multiple activities, so the plural form is needed.)
Correct:
- What kinds of sports do you play?
(This phrasing properly reflects the plural nature of the question.)
Advanced Usage: Contextual Precision with “What Kind of”
Using “what kind of” can add precision to your speech. Whether you’re asking about someone’s preferences, a recommendation, or the characteristics of a specific object, it creates a precise and focused question. Unlike “what kinds of,” which casts a wider net, “what kind of” helps you zoom in on one aspect or choice.
For instance, asking “What kind of experience are you looking for?” prompts someone to think specifically about one type of experience they prefer, whether it’s relaxing or challenging. On the other hand, using “what kinds of” would broaden the conversation, implying the listener should list multiple types of experiences.
What Kinds of: Definition and Usage
“What kinds of” is used to inquire about multiple types, varieties, or categories of something, typically followed by a plural noun. When you use “what kinds of”, you’re asking for information about more than one type or kind of a particular thing. It’s broader than the singular “what kind of” and implies that the speaker expects a list or a selection of different options or categories in response.
Core Meaning of “What Kinds of”
The phrase “what kinds of” helps you explore multiple types of an item, action, or concept. It emphasizes the plurality of options or kinds. For instance, asking “What kinds of fruits do you like?” implies that the respondent could mention several types of fruit, such as apples, bananas, and oranges. The idea is to explore variety rather than narrowing down to a singular example.
When and How to Use “What Kinds of”
1. For Inquiring About Multiple Categories
The most common usage of “what kinds of” is to ask about multiple types or categories. You’re expecting answers that cover variety rather than focusing on a single option.
Example Sentences:
- What kinds of books do you enjoy reading?
This question seeks a range of book genres like fiction, mystery, or science fiction. - What kinds of movies are showing at the theater?
Here, the speaker expects a variety of movie genres, such as action, comedy, or drama.
2. For Exploring Preferences in Multiple Areas
When asking someone about their preferences across different categories, “what kinds of” fits perfectly. It allows the person to list various types of things they like or are interested in.
Example Sentences:
- What kinds of music do you listen to?
The question aims to explore a range of genres like jazz, pop, or classical. - What kinds of foods do you enjoy?
Here, the inquiry is asking about a range of cuisines or food categories—Italian, Asian, vegetarian, etc.
3. For Asking About Multiple Varieties or Versions
When there are several types or versions of something, “what kinds of” is the appropriate choice to reflect the plurality of what’s being asked.
Example Sentences:
- What kinds of shoes do they sell in this store?
This question is asking about various shoe styles, such as sneakers, boots, or sandals. - What kinds of services does your company offer?
The inquiry seeks information on the variety of services provided—consulting, training, support, etc.
4. Inquiring About Types of Abilities, Skills, or Talents
You can also use “what kinds of” when asking about multiple types of skills or abilities a person might possess. It emphasizes variety within the realm of talents.
Example Sentences:
- What kinds of skills are necessary for this job?
This refers to multiple necessary skills, such as leadership, technical ability, and communication. - What kinds of talents do you look for when hiring?
This question seeks multiple types of talents or qualities that an employer might value.
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Practical Applications of “What Kinds of”
1. In Educational and Professional Contexts
In educational or professional settings, “what kinds of” is useful when you need information about multiple types of something. This can apply to a range of topics such as work processes, tasks, or learning materials.
Example Sentences:
- What kinds of training do you provide for employees?
This refers to the variety of training options—technical, management, or safety training. - What kinds of assignments do students receive in this course?
The question aims to explore the different types of assignments, such as essays, presentations, or research projects.
2. In Everyday Conversations
In casual discussions, “what kinds of” helps you ask broad questions about someone’s interests, preferences, or experiences. It’s a versatile phrase that applies to many areas of life.
Example Sentences:
- What kinds of hobbies do you have?
This opens the door for someone to talk about a range of activities they enjoy, from painting to hiking to reading. - What kinds of places do you like to visit on vacation?
This question invites a variety of answers, such as beaches, mountains, or cities.
Common Mistakes with “What Kinds of”
1. Using It with Singular Nouns
One of the common errors is using “what kinds of” with a singular noun. Since “what kinds of” is designed to ask about plural categories or items, it should always be followed by a plural noun.
Incorrect:
- What kinds of book do you like?
(“Book” is singular, so “kinds” should be used with a plural noun.)
Correct:
- What kinds of books do you like?
(This correctly uses the plural form, “books,” to match “kinds.”)
2. Mixing Singular and Plural Forms
Sometimes, people mix the singular and plural forms by using “what kinds of” with a singular idea but mistakenly make it sound plural. It’s important to keep everything consistent—plural with plural, singular with singular.
Incorrect:
- What kinds of ice cream flavor do you want?
(Here, “flavor” is singular, so “kinds” is not appropriate.)
Correct:
- What kinds of ice cream flavors do you want?
(Both “kinds” and “flavors” are plural, making the sentence grammatically correct.)
Expanded Examples of “What Kinds of” in Use
To further illustrate the versatility of “what kinds of”, let’s look at some real-world scenarios where this phrase fits perfectly.
- What kinds of animals can be found in Africa?
The expectation here is to list different species, such as lions, elephants, and giraffes. - What kinds of problems did you encounter on your trip?
This question seeks multiple examples of issues, such as delays, lost luggage, or language barriers. - What kinds of books are available at the library?
In this case, the speaker wants to know about the various genres or categories of books, like fiction, non-fiction, and biographies.
In all these examples, “what kinds of” clearly asks for multiple types, and the response will involve a range of answers.
Grammar Rules: When to Use “What Kinds of”
“What kinds of” follows these basic grammar rules:
- Always Use Plural Nouns:
After “what kinds of”, the noun must always be plural. You’re asking about more than one variety or category, so the noun must reflect this plurality. - Use It for General Inquiry About Variety:
This phrase is ideal when you want to gather information about different categories or varieties of something, making it broader in scope than “what kind of.”
Table: “What Kinds of” vs “What Kind of”
| Phrase | Used For | Noun Type | Example |
| What kind of | One specific type or category | Singular noun | What kind of movie do you want to watch? |
| What kinds of | Multiple types or categories | Plural noun | What kinds of activities are planned for the weekend? |
Advanced Usage of “What Kinds of”
In more complex contexts, “what kinds of” allows for a deeper exploration of variety. For example, it’s useful when conducting surveys, interviews, or research. The phrase encourages respondents to provide multiple answers, offering a richer understanding of preferences or categories.
Example Sentences:
- What kinds of challenges did you face during the project?
This question opens the door to multiple answers, like budget issues, time constraints, or technical difficulties. - What kinds of jobs are available in this sector?
The speaker is asking about the different job roles or types available, such as engineering, management, or sales.
Comparison: What Kind of vs What Kinds of
To fully understand the difference between “what kind of” vs “what kinds of,” let’s break it down in more detail.
| Phrase | Usage | Noun | Example |
| What kind of | Asks about one specific type or category | Singular | What kind of food do you like? |
| What kinds of | Asks about multiple types or categories | Plural | What kinds of sports do you play? |
Key Differences:
- Singular vs. Plural Focus: “What kind of” is for singular, and “what kinds of” is for plural.
- Specific vs. General Inquiry: “What kind of” seeks one answer, whereas “what kinds of” looks for multiple types.
Contextual Understanding: How Meaning Changes
Sometimes, the context can guide which phrase to use. Here’s how to figure out when to use “what kind of” vs. “what kinds of” based on the intended meaning.
Singular Focus
- “What kind of job are you looking for?”
- In this case, the question is asking about one specific type of job.
Plural Focus
- “What kinds of jobs are available in this field?”
- Here, the speaker is asking about a variety of job types in the field, suggesting multiple answers.
The context dictates whether the question is asking for a singular type (e.g., “what kind of”) or multiple types (e.g., “what kinds of”). Context-driven choices make the distinction clear.
Common Errors and Misconceptions
Many people incorrectly swap “what kind of” vs “what kinds of.” Let’s explore some common errors to avoid:
Mistaking Plural for Singular
Incorrect: What kind of shoes do you like?
Correct: What kinds of shoes do you like?
Since “shoes” is plural, “kinds” is more appropriate.
Overusing “What Kind of”
Incorrect: What kind of books do you own?
Correct: What kinds of books do you own?
This question refers to multiple books, so “kinds” fits better.
Confusion in Casual Speech
Non-native speakers may struggle with this distinction, leading to common errors like:
- “What kind of movies do you like?” (when they mean multiple genres)
- “What kinds of food is served here?” (mixing singular and plural inappropriately)
31 Key Differences Between “What Kind of” vs “What Kinds of”
Differences:
To provide a clearer understanding, here are 31 essential points that distinguish the use of “what kind of” vs “what kinds of”:
- Noun Type: “What kind of” is followed by singular nouns.
- Plural Focus: “What kinds of” is followed by plural nouns.
- Singular Inquiry: “What kind of” seeks information about one category.
- Plural Inquiry: “What kinds of” asks about multiple categories.
- Personal Preference: “What kind of” is often used when asking about someone’s personal preference (e.g., “What kind of food do you like?”).
- General Variety: “What kinds of” is used when asking about a general variety (e.g., “What kinds of food are served here?”).
- Grammar Consistency: “What kind of” is grammatically aligned with singular verbs, while “what kinds of” pairs with plural verbs.
- Intended Scope: “What kind of” is used when the scope of inquiry is narrow, whereas “what kinds of” applies when the scope is broader.
- Typical Misuse: Learners of English often confuse these two, especially when unsure of singular/plural usage.
- Usage in Formal Writing: Both phrases are appropriate in formal writing, but “what kinds of” is more likely in detailed reports or research.
- Clarity of Question: Using the correct form ensures clarity in communication.
- Formality: Both forms can be used formally or casually, depending on the setting.
- Consistency with Adjectives: Adjectives following “what kind of” describe one singular noun, while those following “what kinds of” describe multiple nouns.
- Examples: Real-world examples help distinguish correct usage.
- Plural Implications: Using “what kinds of” implies the existence of multiple types even when discussing abstract concepts.
More Key Points:
- Use in Lists: In list-making, “what kinds of” can serve to categorize various items.
- Collective Nouns: “What kind of” can work with collective nouns (e.g., “What kind of team is this?”).
- Plural Countable Nouns: “What kinds of” is best for plural countable nouns (e.g., “What kinds of flowers do you grow?”).
- Confusion with “Type of”: Some people mistakenly swap “type of” with “kind of.”
- Singular Noun Misuse: Avoid using “what kind of” with plural nouns (e.g., “What kind of shoes” is incorrect).
- Plural Noun Misuse: Similarly, avoid using “what kinds of” with singular nouns.
- Regional Variations: In some dialects, one phrase may be favored over the other, though both are standard.
- Common Conversations: In daily speech, “what kind of” is more common in inquiries about personal likes.
- Written Clarity: Using the correct phrase in writing makes intentions clear.
- Spelling Variations: Some users might misspell these phrases (e.g., “what kind if” or “what kindd”), but maintaining proper spelling is key.
- Use in Education: Teachers often ask students “what kinds of” questions when seeking multiple examples.
- Formal Grammar Rules: Grammar books tend to stress the importance of using “what kind of” for singular and “what kinds of” for plural.
- Real-World Scenarios: Learning through real-world scenarios enhances understanding of the distinction.
- Contextual Misuse: Sometimes context can cause a person to mistakenly use one phrase over the other.
- Clarity in Communication: Always aim for clarity; misuse of these phrases can lead to confusion.
- Long-Term Understanding: Mastery comes with practice, especially in real-life conversations and writing.
Grammar Rules: Kind of vs Kinds of
Singular Nouns with Multiple Attributes
When you have a singular noun that has multiple attributes, “what kind of” is appropriate. For example:
- What kind of car do you drive?
(Even though a car may have many features, it’s still one car, so singular.)
Collective Nouns
Collective nouns, like family, team, or group, may seem like they refer to many individuals, but they are treated as singular entities when using “what kind of.”
- What kind of team do you want to join?
Plural Nouns with Singular Classification
There are cases where plural nouns can take “what kind of” if they refer to a single classification:
- What kind of jeans do you wear?
(Even though jeans are plural, you’re referring to one category or type of jeans.)
Context and Intended Meaning
Singular Context
- What kind of movie are we watching?
Here, the speaker is asking for one genre or type of movie, not multiple categories.
Plural Context
- What kinds of movies do you like?
This question asks about various genres of movies, seeking multiple answers.
Understanding the intended meaning is crucial. If you want to know about a single item, use “what kind of.” If you’re inquiring about a variety, go with “what kinds of.”
Expanded Examples with “What Kinds of”
Let’s dive deeper into examples that use “what kinds of” in everyday situations:
- What kinds of activities are you planning for the event?
(This asks for various types of activities.) - What kinds of drinks are available at the party?
(Here, the speaker is asking about multiple drink options.) - What kinds of skills are important for this job?
(This example refers to multiple skills, indicating a variety of qualifications.)
In these examples, “what kinds of” clearly focuses on multiple types, showing a broader range.
Expanded Examples with “What Kind of”
Here are detailed examples where “what kind of” fits naturally:
- What kind of advice do you need?
(This asks for a singular type of advice.) - What kind of phone do you have?
(Here, the inquiry is about a specific type or model of phone.) - What kind of weather do you like?
(This question focuses on one type of weather, such as sunny or rainy.)
These examples emphasize that “what kind of” is used when seeking one specific category.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it ever correct to use “what kind of” with a plural noun?
No, “what kind of” is generally followed by singular nouns. If you’re referring to multiple types, “what kinds of” is the correct choice.
What’s the best way to determine when to use one phrase over the other?
Consider the noun you’re referring to. If it’s singular, use “what kind of.” If it’s plural, use “what kinds of.”
Can “what kinds of” ever refer to singular things?
No, “what kinds of” refers to multiple categories or types. If you’re talking about one item, “what kind of” should be used.
Conclusion
The differences between “what kind of” vs “what kinds of” are subtle but essential for clear communication. Understanding when to use each one depends on whether you’re referring to a singular or plural noun and whether you’re inquiring about one type or multiple types of something. By practicing with these phrases and using the examples provided, you’ll improve your grammar and communication skills, ensuring you use the right phrase in the right context.
John David is an experienced blogger at Grammar Blend, passionate about language and communication. With a keen eye for grammar and clarity, he shares practical tips and tools to help readers improve their writing skills. His insightful articles make grammar accessible and engaging for learners of all levels.
