Why is recommendation a countable noun?

"Recommendation" is not always a countable noun. It can be both countable and uncountable, depending on the context.

Here's why:

* Countable: When "recommendation" refers to a specific, individual suggestion or proposal, it is countable. You can have one recommendation, two recommendations, etc.

* Example: "I have a few recommendations for restaurants in the area." (Each recommendation is a specific restaurant suggestion).

* Uncountable: When "recommendation" refers to the general act of recommending or the general advice given, it becomes uncountable. It's treated as a mass noun, like water or sand.

* Example: "The company has a policy of only hiring people with strong recommendations from previous employers." (Here, "recommendation" refers to the general concept of being recommended, not specific individual recommendations).

Therefore, whether "recommendation" is countable or uncountable depends on whether you're referring to specific, individual recommendations or the general idea of recommendation.