Nouns that refer to objects or persons of the same kind are called ______.

Appeared in: CGHS SSC - 2018

Explanation

A Common Noun is the correct answer because it is defined as a name given in common to every person or thing of the same class or kind.
This aligns perfectly with the question's description of nouns that refer to 'objects or persons of the same kind'.
For example, 'nurse' is a common noun because it can refer to any person in that profession, not a specific individual.

Option A: An Abstract Noun names an idea, quality, or state (like 'courage' or 'health'), not a physical person or object of a certain kind.
Option B: A Collective Noun names a group of persons or things as a single unit (like 'team' or 'flock'), not an individual member of a class.
Option D: A Proper Noun names a specific, unique person, place, or thing (like 'Florence Nightingale' or 'London'). It is the opposite of a noun for a general kind.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Types of Nouns in English Grammar as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
While this is a grammar question, precision in language is vital in nursing for clear and unambiguous documentation. Differentiating between a common noun ('a doctor') and a proper noun ('Dr. Smith') ensures accurate communication in patient charts and handovers.
Using correct terminology prevents misinterpretation of orders, patient histories, and care plans, which is a cornerstone of patient safety.
What if? If a nurse documents 'patient was seen by the doctor' instead of 'patient was seen by Dr. Evans', it creates ambiguity. In an emergency or a handover, knowing the specific individual (Proper Noun) is critical, whereas just knowing the role (Common Noun) might be insufficient.

How to Approach the Question

First, read the question carefully to understand the definition being provided: 'nouns that refer to objects or persons of the same kind'.
Analyze the core idea: the noun is 'common' or 'general' to a whole class of things.
Next, review the definitions of each option provided.
Match the definition in the question stem to the correct grammatical term from the options.
Eliminate options that don't fit. A 'Proper Noun' is specific, not general. An 'Abstract Noun' is an idea, not a person/object. A 'Collective Noun' is a group, not a class.
Conclude that 'Common Noun' is the only term that accurately describes a name for a general class of people or objects.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Psychology Morgan King 9e Part 1 p. 249-251

Practise the full CGHS SSC - 2018

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.