Page 29 - English Vocabulary In Use upper intermediet and advance

Abstract nouns

An abstract noun is one which is used to mean an idea, experience or quality rather than an
object. Thus happiness, intention and shock are abstract nouns whereas, for example, pen,
bed and trousers are not.

There are a number of suffixes which are used particularly frequently in the formation of
abstract nouns. Some of the most common are -ment, -ion, -ness and -ity.
Note: -ment and -ion are usually used to make verbs into abstract nouns whereas -ness and
-ity are added to adjectives; -ion sometimes becomes -tion, +ion, -ation or -ition.
Here are some examples of abstract nouns using those suffixes.
achievement action aggressiveness absurdity
adjustment collection attractiveness anonymity
amazement combination bitterness complexity
discouragement illusion carelessness curiosity
improvement imagination consciousnes~ generosity
investment production permissiveness hostility
replacement recognition tenderness prosperity
retirement reduction ugliness sensitivity

Less common suffixes associated with abstract nouns are -ship, -dom, -th and -hood.
Note: -ship and -hood are usually used in combination with other nouns whereas -th
combines with an adjective to form an abstract noun and -dom can combine with either a
noun or an adjective.
Here are some examples of abstract nouns using those suffixes.
apprenticeship boredom breadth adulthood
companionship freedom depth brotherhood
membership kingdom length childhood
ownership martyrdom strength motherhood
partnership stardom warmth neighbowhood
relationship wisdom width (wo)manhood
There are also a large number of abstract nouns which do not use any suffix at all. Here are
some examples of these.
anger belief calm chance
faith fear humour idea
luck principle rage reason
sense sight speed thought

You will find more examples of the use of suffixes in Units 8 and 10 and of abstract nouns
in Units 68 and 69.

English Vocabulary in Use