What are nouns?
Nouns are words that name a person, place, animal, or thing.
Examples:
- person → girl
- place → school
- animal → dog
- thing → ball
Note
If you can see it, touch it, or name it, it is often a noun.
What is a common noun?
A common noun is a general name for a person, place, animal, or thing.
Examples:
- boy
- city
- cat
- book
Note
Common nouns do not begin with a capital letter unless they start a sentence.
What is a proper noun?
A proper noun names a special or specific person, place, animal, or thing.
Examples:
- Emma
- New York
- Buddy (a pet’s name)
- Disney World
Note
Proper nouns always begin with a capital letter.
Common nouns and proper nouns together
A common noun can become a proper noun when it names something special.
Examples:
- teacher → Mrs. Lee
- city → Chicago
- dog → Max
Note
The same word can be common or proper depending on how it is used.
Using nouns in sentences
Nouns help tell who or what a sentence is about.
Examples:
- The dog is running.
- Lucy is my best friend.
- The school is big.
- Lincoln Elementary is our school.
Note
Look for capital letters to help you find proper nouns in sentences.