NOUNS

Here, we are going to approach the concept of NOUN as a part of speech by considering its various definitions. Under this, we will consider, also, the grammatical functions and features of nouns. From there, we will get to know various types of nouns and the distinctive features that distinguish a type of noun from another; and, generally, nouns from other parts of speech. Finally, we will learn the grammatical roles nouns play in noun phrases and clauses. Let’s get the ball rolling!

What is a noun?

The traditional grammarians made us understand that a noun is the name of any PERSON, ANIMAL, PLACE or THING. On the other hand, the modern ones said a noun is a naming word, simply put. If you ask me, I would say there is nothing wrong with both definitions. The problem lies with understanding how a noun operates or functions grammatically, I mean with understandable illustrations. Now let do justice to that.

A noun, therefore, is a naming word that can be used to identify a person, animal, place, or things. It is a word that operates as the name of some specific thing or group of things, such as living creatures (Persons or animals), objects (seen or unseen; abstract or concrete), places, actions, qualities, state of being or existence, ideas or concepts. Simply put, a noun is a word used to identify anything, whether living or non-living; physical or invisible; concrete or abstract.  Since, nothing exists in the universe without a name, hence, whatever name they are identified with, is a noun. Did you get it now? Great!

Let’s consider some illustrations to that effect.

·         Living creatures or things, such as persons can be identified with names like:

Man, woman, James, John, Jones, Ademola, Susan, Joy, Lola, Tony, Albert, brother, sister, uncle, girl, boy, principal, officer, teacher, doctor, neighbour, etc.

·         Places around the world can be identified with names like:

London, Africa, New York, Nigeria, etc.

·         While living things such as animals can be identified with names like:

Dog, cat, birds, bat, goat, cow, ram, sheep, cattle, pets, ox, beast, rat, fish, etc.

·         Also, non-living things such as concrete objects can be identified with names like:

Cup, tap, water, sand, computer, shirt, shoes, head, eyes, nose, church, school, office, road, land, area, fingers, place, London, Nigeria, Africa, etc.

·         Other non-living things that are abstract or invisible can be identified with names like:

Love, emotion, care, joy, idea, sorrow, song, beat, vibration, sound, tone, fear, noise, choice, election, function, light, brightness, work, word, whistle, sense, perfection, etc.