The abstract noun for the adjective 'envious' is envy.
Understanding Abstract Nouns
Abstract nouns represent concepts, qualities, states, or ideas that cannot be perceived with the five senses. Unlike concrete nouns (like "table" or "tree"), abstract nouns are intangible. They often describe emotions, feelings, and characteristics, allowing us to discuss non-physical realities. For example, concepts such as love, freedom, or happiness are all abstract nouns.
Learn more about abstract nouns and their function in language.
The Adjective 'Envious' and its Abstract Noun 'Envy'
The word 'envious' is an adjective used to describe someone who feels or shows envy. Its corresponding abstract noun, 'envy', represents the feeling itself – a strong desire to have what someone else has, or a feeling of discontent and ill-will at another's superiority, success, or possessions. This relationship is common in English, where adjectives can often be transformed into abstract nouns that name the quality or state they describe.
To illustrate this relationship, consider these common adjective-abstract noun pairs:
| Adjective | Abstract Noun |
|---|---|
| envious | envy |
| jealous | jealousy |
| apathetic | apathy |
| hungry | hunger |
Usage in Sentences
Understanding the distinction between an adjective and its related abstract noun is crucial for precise communication.
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Envious (Adjective): Describes a quality or state of a person or thing.
- "He felt envious of his friend's new car." (Describes "he")
- "Her envious glance betrayed her true feelings." (Describes "glance")
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Envy (Abstract Noun): Represents the concept or feeling itself.
- "Her success stirred envy among her competitors." (Names the emotion as the object of stirring)
- "Envy can be a destructive emotion if not managed." (Names the emotion as the subject of the sentence)
Practical Insights into Abstract Nouns
- Expressing Complexity: Abstract nouns are essential for expressing complex thoughts, emotions, and philosophical ideas. They provide the vocabulary needed to articulate intricate aspects of human experience and abstract principles.
- Grammatical Function: While adjectives modify nouns, abstract nouns function as subjects, objects, or complements within sentences, just like concrete nouns. They can be counted (e.g., "many fears") or remain uncountable (e.g., "much happiness"), depending on the specific noun.
