Definition and Types of Common Nouns in Marathi

In Marathi grammar, common nouns, also known as sarvnaam, are names used to identify general people, places, things, or ideas. They do not denote specific individuals or objects but rather cover a broader categorization.

Common nouns in Marathi can be categorized into the following types:

• Concrete Nouns: These nouns refer to tangible things that can be seen, touched, smelt, or tasted. Examples include ghar (house), zhaad (tree), and paani (water).
• Abstract Nouns: In contrast to concrete nouns, abstract nouns denote intangible concepts, feelings, or ideas. Examples in Marathi are sukh (happiness), dnyaan (knowledge), and prem (love).
• Collective Nouns: These nouns signify a group or collection of people, animals, or things. Examples in Marathi include sena (army), jamaav (gathering), and tok (flock).
• Compound Nouns: Compound nouns are formed by combining two or more words, which may be other common nouns, proper nouns, or even adjectives. Some Marathi examples are paanyaachaa taap (water heat), dudhpaak (milk sweet), and motthaa shet (big field).

Formation of Plurals in Marathi Common Nouns

The process of forming plurals for common nouns in Marathi grammar varies based on the noun’s gender, sound, and ending. Here are some key rules:

1. For masculine nouns ending with ‘-a’: Replace the ‘-a’ with ‘-e’ to form the plural. Example: kuttraa (dog) becomes kuttare (dogs).
2. For feminine nouns ending with ‘-i’ or ‘-u’: Replace the ending with ‘-ya’ to create the plural. Example: kaachi (glass) becomes kaachya (glasses).
3. Invariable nouns: Some common nouns do not change in number, such as paani (water) and maaj (wax).

Usage of Common Nouns in Marathi Sentences

Using common nouns in Marathi sentences forms the basis for communication, and their proper placement ensures clarity and understanding.

Consider these examples:

• Ramesh aani Suresh bhet mhanaje prem. (Ramesh and Suresh’s meeting means love.)
• Gaavakde gharmaage gharmaaje dnyaan doodhdaara. (Villagers gather knowledge by going from house to house.)

Notice how the common nouns prem (love) and dnyaan (knowledge) provide essential information in these sentences.

Conclusion: Mastery of Common Nouns in Marathi Grammar

Understanding the different types, formation rules, and applications of common nouns in Marathi grammar is key to effective communication in this language. With diligent practice, one can master Marathi common nouns and unlock the door to a vast repository of knowledge and culture.