Half | Definition, Etymology, Synonyms & Antonyms

Yes, “half” is typically used as a singular noun. It refers to one of two equal parts or divisions of a whole. While “half” itself is singular, it can be used in combination with other words to express a plural concept, such as “half of the apples” or “half of the books.”

Yes, “half” can be considered a countable noun. While it is often used as a measure of a division or portion, it can still be counted when referring to multiple instances or when combined with other countable nouns. For example, “She ate two halves of the sandwich” or “There are three halves in one and a half.”

“Half” can function as both a noun and a pronoun, depending on its usage in a sentence.

As a noun

When “half” is used to refer to one of two equal parts or a portion, it functions as a noun.

As a pronoun

“Half” can also be used as a pronoun to replace a noun or noun phrase that has been previously mentioned. For instance, instead of repeating the noun, you can use “half” as a pronoun. For example, “She ate a slice of the cake, and he ate half.” In this case, “half” is used as a pronoun to refer back to the previously mentioned noun phrase “a slice of the cake.”

“Time and a half” is a noun phrase. It refers to a specific type of compensation or pay rate, typically in the context of overtime work. When an employee is paid “time and a half,” it means they receive their regular hourly wage plus an additional half of that wage for each hour worked beyond a certain threshold.

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