What Is a Proper Noun? Definition and Examples

In English grammar, nouns refer to the specific name of a person, thing, or place. Common nouns are generic; however, proper nouns are dedicatedly focused on the name of a person, place, or thing. To learn about what is a proper noun, and its usage, plenty of examples of proper nouns are going to provide in this article. 

Names are usually used as a proper noun that always begins with a capital letter no matter in what position it is placed in a sentence. Proper nouns are unique and distinguished from common nouns. Proper noun helps to recognize specific entities to make clear communication. This article will give you a clear definition and examples of proper nouns to gather more knowledge about them.  

Access FREE English Practice Worksheets!

What is a Proper Noun? 

A proper noun always refers to a specific name of a person, place, or thing. A proper noun always starts with a capital letter, regardless of its place or position in the sentence. A proper noun is also known as a proper name as it is used for places, people, and things.  

Example of proper nouns:  

Places- India, Madrid, Oxford University.  

People- Sachin Tendulkar, Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Teressa.  

Things- The Sun, The mountain, The universe.  

Difference Between Common Nouns and Proper Nouns  

Common nouns and proper nouns are two different parts of nouns. Common nouns are generic and can be used as multiple items of the same type. On the other hand, proper noun refers to specific and there is no way the other could be the same type. Proper nouns will appear always capitalized and common nouns are not used in a sentence.  

Example:  

Proper Nouns Follow Some Specific Rules in Grammar 

• Proper noun always starts with capital letter, regardless of position. 

• It refers to specific names of a person, place, or thing.  

• In the case of titles and names use capital letters.  

• In mentioning days, months, or holidays proper nouns are used in capital letters.  

• In geographic names, such as country, state, city, river, and mountain proper nouns are used.  

• In brand names, specific institutions and historical events are referred to as proper nouns.  

In short, proper nouns are an important component of English grammar that provides specific clarity in the naming of different entities. It distinguishes specific people, places, and things, and always starts with capital letters. Proper nouns follow a few specific rules and applications to communicate more precisely. Moreover, appropriate examples of proper nouns explain better and help in understanding. In historical events, geographical location brand names, etc. refer to proper nouns that play a crucial role in the English language. To learn more about proper noun and their uses, please visit www.98thpercentile.com or you can join our 1-week free trial classes on the ELA program.  

FAQs  

Q.1. What is a common noun?  

Ans: A common noun is a type of noun that refers generic form of names, places, people or things.  

Q.2. What is the main difference between a common noun and a proper noun?  

Ans: Common nouns are generic and proper nouns are more specific with people, places and things.  

Q.3. Can proper nouns be plural?  

Ans: Yes, proper nouns can be plural, if one thing shares the same name.  

Q.4. How do I use proper noun articles?  

Ans: A few proper nouns are preceded by an article. Example- The United Kingdom.   

Q.5. How do you identify a proper noun?  

Ans: A proper noun is a specific one that names a particular place, person, or thing in a sentence. 

Book FREE English Trial Classes Now!

Related Articles 

1. Explanation with Examples of Intransitive Verb

2. Phrasal Verb: Definition and examples

3. List of Abstract Nouns in English

4. Introduction to Transitive Verbs