An abstract noun is a noun that represents an idea, quality, or state rather than a physical object. Many abstract nouns are formed by adding a suffix to a verb, adjective, or another noun.

Common Suffixes for Abstract Nouns

1. -tion / -sion → (Act or Process)
   • Educate → Education
   • Decide → Decision
   • Expand → Expansion
2. -ment → (State or Quality)
   • Achieve → Achievement
   • Enjoy → Enjoyment
   • Develop → Development
3. -ance / -ence → (State or Condition)
   • Perform → Performance
   • Exist → Existence
   • Persist → Persistence
4. -ity / -ty → (Quality or Condition)
   • Active → Activity
   • Honest → Honesty
   • Able → Ability
5. -ness → (State or Quality)
   • Kind → Kindness
   • Happy → Happiness
   • Dark → Darkness
6. -hood → (State or Group)
   • Child → Childhood
   • Brother → Brotherhood
   • Neighbor → Neighborhood

Example Sentence:

• His decision to move abroad was difficult. (Decision comes from “decide” + “-sion”)