An abstract noun is a type of noun that refers to something with which a person cannot physically interact. A noun is a person, place or thing. However, in many cases, the 'thing' might be an intangible concept – which means it is an abstract form of the noun. In this instance, abstract means to exist apart from concrete existence. A noun that is abstract is an aspect, concept, idea, experience, state of being, trait, quality, feeling, or other entity that cannot be experienced with the five senses.
e.g. HAPPINESS, SHOCK, CURIOSITY are abstract nouns, but PENS, TROUSERS are not.
ABSTRACT NOUNS mostly contain suffixes such as : -ment, -ness, -ity, -ion, -tion, -sion, -ation, -ition.
Achievement Amazement
Bitterness, ugliness
Curiosity, generosity
Imagination, collection
Recognition, production
- Some abstract nouns also contain the suffixes: -dom, -ship, -hood
e.g. Freedom, boredom , ownership, childhood, neighbourhood
- A large number of abstract nouns do not use any suffixes and are mainly emotions. E.g. anger, faith, thought, fear, belief, rage, speed, reason, luck, etc.
** Download the worksheet given below and give it to your student/children to practise.