Page 15 - Grammar Glow - 5

Formation of Abstract Nouns

Abstract nouns can be formed by adding -ness to some adjectives.

Adjective Abstract Noun Adjective Abstract Noun

good goodness hard hardness

kind kindness sick sickness

white whiteness bright brightness

sweet sweetness sad sadness

Remember

Abstract nouns are generally used in the singular form.

Abstract nouns can be formed by adding -hood to some common nouns.

Common Noun Abstract Noun Common Noun Abstract Noun

child childhood mother motherhood

boy boyhood neighbour neighbourhood

father fatherhood brother brotherhood

Abstract nouns can be formed by changing the spelling a little and by adding -ion to

some verbs.

Verbs Abstract Noun Verbs Abstract Noun

subtract subtraction decide decision

educate education divide division

add addition imitate imitation

Some other examples of abstract nouns are pain, anger, love, hate, loyalty, success,

fear, justice, growth, wisdom, cleanliness, darkness, theft, kinship, peace, honesty,
friendship, hope and joy.

13