Abstract Noun

Definition of Abstract Nouns

Abstract nouns are a type of noun that represent non-physical qualities, concepts or ideas which cannot be seen or touched.

Abstract Nouns Examples

List of Abstract Nouns

How to Identify Abstract Nouns?

Nouns which cannot be physically touched but only felt are called abstract nouns. A noun, for example, goodness or freedom, that refers to an idea or a general quality, not to a physical object is an abstract noun. The names of arts and sciences (music, grammar, chemistry, biology, etc.) are all abstract nouns.

Tricks to identify abstract nouns are: 

1. First, scan the sentences or phrases and look for words that describe intangible qualities, characteristics or concepts. 
2. To identify abstract nouns look for words that represent processes or actions. For example, The verb "imagine" can be transformed into the abstract noun "imagination". 
3. They refer to general ideas rather than specific objects. For example, value, success, creativity, etc.
4. It is important to consider the context of the sentence as it may help us to identify whether a noun is abstract or not. 
5. Words which are not concrete or tangible are considered abstract nouns. For example, information.

When Do We Use Abstract Nouns?

1. They are used when we refer to general ideas, concepts or qualities. 
2. They are also used to express people's feelings or emotions. For example, Hema was filled with happiness when she received an award. 
3. They are used when we discuss or write about philosophy or abstract ideas. For example, Freedom is an important aspect. 

Common Mistakes with Abstract Noun

1. Students often treat abstract nouns as concrete nouns. For example, "Shreya has a lot of bravery" this sentence is not correct as bravery is an idea, not an object that can't be seen, touched or heard. The correct sentence is "Shreya has shown bravery" or "Shreya has no parallels in bravery".
2. Often, abstract nouns are singular but many students may write it in plural form. For example, they may write knowledges instead of knowledge. 
3. Students often use abstract nouns as they are verbs. Abstract nouns are not verbs. For example, "He showed happy" is an incorrect sentence. The correct sentence is "He was filled with happiness".

Formation of Abstract Nouns

When we add suffixes at the end of some verbs, adjectives or other nouns we form abstract noun.

How to Convert Verbs and Adjectives Into Abstract Nouns?

To convert verbs and adjectives into abstract nouns, we need to involve transforming words that describe actions or qualities into nouns that represent the concepts or ideas behind those actions or qualities.

Verbs to Abstract Noun

Examples:

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1. Verb: "to create" → Abstract Noun: "creation". In this case, the action of creating is transformed into the abstract concept of creation.
2. Verb: "to inspire" → Abstract Noun: "inspiration". In this case, the action of inspiring is transformed into the abstract concept of inspiration.
3. Verb: "to succeed" → Abstract Noun: "success". In this case, the action of succeeding is transformed into the abstract concept of success.

Adjectives to Abstract Noun

Examples:

1. Adjective: "strong" → Abstract Noun: "strength". The quality of being strong is captured in the abstract noun "strength."
2. Adjective: "beautiful" → Abstract Noun: "beauty". The quality of being beautiful is captured in the abstract noun "beauty."
3. Adjective: "confident" → Abstract Noun: "confidence". The quality of being confident is captured in the abstract noun "confidence."

To Read About Singular Nouns: Click here

Examples of Abstract Nouns in Sentences

→ A true friendship lasts forever. 
→ He was angry. 
→ Many appreciate kindness. 
→ We had an amazing childhood. 
→ Please tell me the truth. 
→ Reading increases our knowledge. 
→ Josh experienced immense joy after winning the lottery.

FAQs

1. What are abstract noun?

Answer: Nouns which cannot be physically experienced are known as abstract noun. For example, happiness, sadness, childhood, friendship. 

2. Can abstract noun be countable?

Answer: It can be both. Examples: 

1. Shelly had two dreams that night.
2. Jemima gave me noble advice which I will remember all my life.
3. All his three suggestions are worth implementing.
4. He cracked this exam in his fourth attempt.

3. Is an abstract noun singular or plural?

Answer: Abstract nouns can be singular or plural. Examples: dreams, curses, suggestions, atrocities, advices, etc.

4. What are the examples of abstract nouns?

Answer: List of abstract nouns are: 

1. glory
2. truth
3. honesty
4. love
5. resistance
6. appointment
7. bravery 

5. What are some examples of abstract nouns in sentences?

Answer: Some examples of abstract noun in a sentence are:

1. Everyone loves freedom.
2. Her kindness is worth emulating.
3. His passion for guitar is beyond description.
4. She is my childhood friend.