Basic English grammar has many important points which are discusced briefly here on enlightennest.com.If you are beginner than you should cover your english grammar because without english grammar you cann’t pass your English Essay Writing paper.
Parts of Speech
Basic English grammar is a key for learning English at any level.
- Noun
- Adjective
- Pronoun
- Verb
- Adverb
- Preposition
- Conjunction
- Interjection
Noun:Basic English grammar
What is a Noun?
A noun is a word that names a person, place, or thing. The term “thing” here broadly refers to anything we can perceive or think about.
Examples:
Person: Akbar was a great king.
Place: Multan is in Punjab.
Thing: The rose smells sweet.Nouns allow us to identify and classify the world around us, forming the bedrock of communication.
Types of Nouns
Nouns are categorized into four main types based on their nature and usage:
1. Proper Noun
A proper noun refers to a specific person, place, or organization. These nouns are always capitalized.
Example: Akbar, Multan, Punjab
2. Common Noun
A common noun is a general name for a person, place, or thing. It is not capitalized unless it starts a sentence.
Example: king, city, flower
3. Collective Noun
A collective noun refers to a group of individuals or things considered as one unit.
Example: team, herd, class
4. Abstract Noun
An abstract noun represents an idea, quality, or state rather than a tangible object.
Example: honesty, beauty, kindness
Countable and Uncountable Nouns
Nouns can also be classified based on whether they can be counted.
Countable Nouns
These are nouns that refer to things you can count. They have both singular and plural forms.
Examples: book, pen, apple
Uncountable Nouns
These refer to substances or concepts that cannot be counted. They are usually treated as singular.
Examples: milk, oil, sugar
The Noun: Gender
Nouns are also categorized based on gender, reflecting the nature of the person or thing they represent.
1. Masculine Gender
This gender represents nouns associated with strength and traditionally male roles.
Examples: king, lion, hero
2. Feminine Gender
This gender represents nouns associated with beauty, gentleness, and grace.
Examples: queen, lioness, heroine
3. Common Gender
Common gender refers to nouns that can denote either a male or female.
Examples: teacher, student, friend
4. Neuter Gender
Neuter gender refers to things without life.
Examples: book, table, car
Noun in Apposition
A noun is said to be in apposition when it directly follows another noun to provide additional information about it.
Example:
Sarfaraz, our captain, made fifty runs.
Here, “our captain” explains or renames the noun “Sarfaraz.”
Cases of Nouns
The grammatical role of a noun in a sentence determines its case. There are two primary cases in English grammar:
1. Nominative Case
A noun or pronoun is in the nominative case when it acts as the subject of a verb. To identify the nominative case, ask who? or what? before the verb.
Example:
The boy kicked the ball.
(Who kicked? The boy – nominative case)
2. Accusative (Objective) Case
A noun or pronoun is in the accusative case when it acts as the object of a verb. To find the accusative case, ask whom? or what? after the verb and its subject.
Example:
The boy kicked the ball.
(Kicked what? The ball – accusative case)
Basic English grammar:ADJECTIVES
What is an Adjective?
An adjective is a word that modifies a noun to add something to its meaning. It describes qualities, quantities, or characteristics of the noun it accompanies.
Examples:
Areeba is a clever girl.
(“Clever” describes the noun “girl.”)
I don’t like that boy.
(“That” specifies which “boy” is being referred to.)
The lazy boy was punished.
(“Lazy” describes the boy’s characteristic.)
Adjectives enrich sentences by adding details that make communication more precise and vivid.
Types of Adjective Usage
Adjectives can be used in two primary ways in a sentence: attributively and predicatively.
1. Attributive Use
When an adjective directly modifies a noun by being placed before it, it is said to be used attributively.
Example:
The lazy boy was punished.
Here, “lazy” is directly modifying the noun “boy” by describing his behavior.
2. Predicative Use
When an adjective is linked to a noun through a verb (typically a linking verb like “is”), it forms part of the predicate and is said to be used predicatively.
Example:
The boy is lazy.
In this case, “lazy” is part of the predicate and describes the subject “boy” via the verb “is.”
Position of Adjectives
Adjectives can occupy different positions in a sentence depending on how they are used. Understanding these positions helps in crafting well-structured sentences.
1. Before the Noun (Attributive Use)
A single adjective placed attributively is usually positioned immediately before the noun.
Example:
King Francis was a hearty king, and loved a royal sport.
Here, “hearty” and “royal” are adjectives placed directly before the nouns “king” and “sport.”
2. After the Noun (For Emphasis)
When multiple adjectives are attached to a single noun, they are often placed after it for emphasis.
Example:
The king, fearless and resolute, at once advanced.
The adjectives “fearless” and “resolute” come after “king” to emphasize his qualities.
3. After the Noun (With Explanatory Phrases)
When an adjective is accompanied by additional words or phrases explaining its meaning, it is placed after the noun.
Example:
He was a man fertile in resource.
The adjective “fertile,” along with the explanatory phrase “in resource,” follows the noun “man” to provide detailed information.
Why Adjectives Matter
Adjectives play a crucial role in making sentences more descriptive and engaging. They allow us to:
1. Differentiate between objects or people.
Example: I don’t like that boy.
2. Provide specific details.
Example: The clever student solved the puzzle.
3. Create vivid imagery.
Example: The serene lake reflected the golden sunlight.
Key Notes to Remember
Adjectives used attributively are positioned before the noun they modify.
Adjectives used predicatively are linked to the noun by a verb.
For emphasis or clarity, adjectives may be placed after the noun, especially when accompanied by explanatory phrases.
VERB:Basic English grammar
What is a Verb?
A verb is a word used to tell or assert something about a person or thing. It describes what the subject of a sentence does, experiences, or is.
Examples:
1. The girl wrote a letter to her cousin.
(“Wrote” tells what action the girl performed.)
2. Faisalabad is a big city.
(“Is” asserts the state of Faisalabad.)
Without verbs, sentences would lack meaning and purpose.
Types of Verbs
Verbs are classified into two main categories based on how the action relates to the object: transitive verbs and intransitive verbs.
1. Transitive Verbs
A transitive verb denotes an action that passes from the subject (doer) to an object (receiver). It requires an object to complete its meaning.
Key Features:
Action passes to an object.
Requires an object to make sense.
Examples:
The girl wrote a letter.
(The action “wrote” passes to the object “letter.”)
He bought a car.
(The action “bought” is directed toward the object “car.”)
Explanation:
Without the object, sentences with transitive verbs feel incomplete. For example:
The girl wrote. (What did she write?)
2. Intransitive Verbs
An intransitive verb denotes an action that does not pass to an object. It expresses a complete thought without needing an object.
Key Features:
No object required.
Expresses a state or self-contained action.
Examples:
The baby sleeps.
(The action “sleeps” does not pass to an object.)
The boy ran quickly.
(The verb “ran” does not act upon an object but describes the boy’s action.)
Explanation:
These verbs are self-sufficient, and adding an object is unnecessary or nonsensical.
Key Differences Between Transitive and Intransitive Verbs
Note on Identifying Verb Types
To determine whether a verb is transitive or intransitive, ask the following:
What? or Whom? after the verb.
If the question has an answer (object), the verb is transitive.
If the question does not make sense or has no answer, the verb is intransitive.
Examples:
1. She plays the piano.
Plays what? The piano. (Transitive)
2. She sleeps peacefully.
Sleeps what? (No answer; Intransitive)
ADVERB:Basic English grammar
What is an Adverb?
An adverb is a word that modifies the meaning of:
1. A verb
2. An adjective
3. Another adverb
Examples:
1. He worked the sum quickly.
(“Quickly” modifies the verb “worked” by describing how the action was performed.)
2. The flower is very beautiful.
(“Very” modifies the adjective “beautiful,” intensifying its quality.)
Adverbs answer questions like how, when, where, how often, and to what extent about the word they modify.
Types of Adverbs Based on Function
1. Adverb of Manner
Definition: Answers the question How?
Examples: well, fast, quickly, carefully, calmly
Usage Rule:
Generally placed after the verb or after the object if there is one.
Examples:
It is raining heavily.
The ship is going slowly.
> Note: Adverbs of manner always come after the verb.
2. Adverbs or Adverb Phrases of Place
Definition: Answers the question Where?
Examples: here, there, everywhere, on the wall
Usage Rule:
Usually placed after the verb or the object (if present).
Examples:
He will come here.
I looked everywhere.
3. Adverb of Time
Definition: Answers the question When?
Examples: today, tomorrow, yesterday, soon
Usage Rule:
Typically placed at the end of the sentence for clarity.
Examples:
We’ll go tomorrow.
She arrived late.
4. Adverb of Frequency
Definition: Answers the question How often?
Examples: always, never, often, usually, generally
Usage Rules:
1. If the verb consists of one word, place the adverb between the subject and the verb.
Examples:
His wife never cooks.
I often visit the library.
2. If the verb consists of more than one word, place the adverb after the first word of the verb phrase.
Examples:
He has never seen a tiger.
I have often told him to write neatly.
3. For the verbs am/are/is/was, place the adverb after the verb.
Examples:
I am never late for school.
We are just off.
4. When stressing the verb, place the adverb before it.
Examples:
Abdul has come late again.
He always used to agree with me.
Basic English grammar:Position of Adverbs
General Rules for Positioning Adverbs
1. Single Adverb of Manner:
Placed immediately after the verb or object.
Example: She sang beautifully.
2. Multiple Adverbs:
When using multiple adverbs after a verb, the order is:
Manner → Place → Time
Examples:
She sang well in the concert.
He spoke earnestly at the meeting last night.
3. Adverb Modifying an Adjective or Another Adverb:
The adverb is placed before the word it modifies.
Examples:
Hassan is a rather lazy boy.
The book is very interesting.
4. Adverb with Auxiliary Verbs:
Typically, adverbs are placed after the auxiliary verb but before the main verb.
Examples:
I have never visited Paris.
We must always be polite.
5. Adverb with “Have to” or “Used to”:
The adverb is placed in front of these expressions.
Examples:
I often have to walk to work.
He always used to arrive on time.
Common Mistakes with Adverbs
1. Misplacing Adverbs:
Incorrect: I drink coffee often in the morning.
Correct: I often drink coffee in the morning.
2. Overusing Adverbs:
Avoid redundancy: She ran very quickly fast.
3. Confusing Adverbs and Adjectives:
Incorrect: She speaks very good.
Correct: She speaks very well.
Preposition:Basic English grammar
What is a Preposition?
A preposition is a word used with a noun or pronoun to show how the person or thing denoted by the noun or pronoun relates to something else.
Examples:
1. There is a cow in the garden.
“In” shows the relationship between the cow and the garden.
2. The girl is fond of music.
“Of” shows the relationship between the girl’s fondness and music.
3. A fair little fir sat under a tree.
“Under” indicates the position of the fir in relation to the tree.
Prepositions act as bridges, connecting words and providing context to sentences.
Purpose of Prepositions
Prepositions serve several purposes, such as:
1. Indicating Location or Place:
Example: The book is on the table.
2. Expressing Time Relationships:
Example: The meeting is scheduled at 5 PM.
3. Describing Direction or Movement:
Example: He walked towards the park.
4. Explaining Cause or Purpose:
Example: She left because of the heavy rain.
5. Describing Manner or Means:
Example: The work was done with care.
Common Prepositions and Their Usage
1. Prepositions of Place/Location
These prepositions specify where something is located.
Examples: in, on, under, above, beside, between, behind, near, at
Sentences:
The keys are on the table.
She sat beside her friend.
2. Prepositions of Time
These prepositions indicate when something happens.
Examples: at, on, in, during, since, until
Sentences:
The movie starts at 7 PM.
They arrived on Monday.
3. Prepositions of Direction/Movement
These prepositions describe movement from one place to another.
Examples: to, towards, into, onto, out of, from
Sentences:
She moved towards the door.
He jumped into the pool.
4. Prepositions of Cause/Reason/Purpose
These prepositions explain why something happens.
Examples: because of, due to, for, from
Sentences:
He was late because of traffic.
This gift is for you.
5. Prepositions of Manner or Means
These prepositions show how something is done.
Examples: by, with, like, as
Sentences:
The package was delivered by a courier.
She painted the picture with a brush.
Common Preposition Errors to Avoid
1. Using Incorrect Prepositions:
Incorrect: She is good in math.
Correct: She is good at math.
2. Omitting Necessary Prepositions:
Incorrect: He arrived the airport.
Correct: He arrived at the airport.
3. Adding Unnecessary Prepositions:
Incorrect: Where are you going to?
Correct: Where are you going?
Quick Tips for Mastering Prepositions
1. Practice Common Collocations:
Certain prepositions often follow specific verbs, adjectives, or nouns.
Examples:
Fond of
Interested in
Look at
2. Learn by Context:
Prepositions can have multiple meanings, so understanding their usage in context is crucial.
Example:
He is in the room. (location)
He will arrive in an hour. (time)
3. Avoid Translating Directly:
Prepositions don’t always translate directly between languages. Rely on examples and practice instead of literal translations.
Conjunction:Basic English grammar
What is a Conjunction?
A conjunction is a word used to join words, phrases, or sentences. It helps establish relationships between ideas, making language cohesive and clear.
Examples:
1. Rehan and Hamid are cousins.
(“And” connects the two subjects, Rehan and Hamid.)
2. Two and two make four.
(“And” joins two numbers to indicate addition.)
3. I ran fast, but missed the train.
(“But” connects two contrasting ideas.)
Without conjunctions, sentences would be disjointed and difficult to follow.
Types of Conjunctions
Conjunctions are classified into three main categories based on their function:
1. Coordinating Conjunctions
Definition: These conjunctions connect words, phrases, or clauses of equal importance.
Examples: and, but, or, so, for, nor, yet
Usage:
1. To combine similar ideas:
Rehan and Hamid are cousins.
2. To show contrast:
I ran fast, but missed the train.
3. To present choices:
Would you like tea or coffee?
2. Subordinating Conjunctions
Definition: These conjunctions connect a dependent (subordinate) clause to an independent (main) clause.
Examples: because, although, since, while, if, unless, when
Usage:
1. To show cause and effect:
I stayed home because it was raining.
2. To indicate contrast:
Although he was tired, he continued working.
3. To denote time:
I will call you when I arrive.
3. Correlative Conjunctions
Definition: These are pairs of conjunctions used together to connect balanced words, phrases, or clauses.
Examples: either…or, neither…nor, both…and, not only…but also
Usage:
1. To present alternatives:
You can either stay here or come with us.
2. To emphasize inclusion:
She is not only talented but also hardworking.
Examples of Conjunction Usage in Sentences
1. Coordinating Conjunctions:
He wanted to stay, but he had to leave.
They can sing and dance.
2. Subordinating Conjunctions:
Since it was late, we decided to stop working.
If you study hard, you will pass the exam.
3. Correlative Conjunctions:
Both the teacher and the students enjoyed the lesson.
Neither the weather nor the traffic could stop us.
Common Mistakes with Conjunctions
1. Overusing Conjunctions:
Incorrect: He ran fast but and missed the train.
Correct: He ran fast but missed the train.
2. Improper Pairing in Correlative Conjunctions:
Incorrect: Either you can walk nor take a bus.
Correct: Either you can walk or take a bus.
3. Fragment Sentences with Subordinating Conjunctions:
Incorrect: Because it was raining.
Correct: I stayed inside because it was raining.
Tips for Using Conjunctions Effectively
1. Understand Relationships:
Choose the conjunction that best fits the logical connection between ideas.
2. Avoid Redundancy:
Use conjunctions only when necessary to avoid wordiness.
3. Maintain Balance:
When using correlative conjunctions, ensure the elements they connect are parallel in structure.
Example: She is both intelligent and kind. (Balanced)
Basic English grammar: Interjection:
What is an Interjection?
An interjection is a word or phrase used to express a sudden feeling, emotion, or reaction. It is often followed by an exclamation mark but can also be part of a sentence.
Examples:
1. Hurrah! We have won the game.
(“Hurrah” expresses joy and excitement.)
2. Alas! She is dead.
(“Alas” conveys sadness or regret.)
Interjections stand apart from the grammatical structure of a sentence and are used to add emotional impact.
Types of Interjections
Interjections can be classified based on the emotions or reactions they express:
1. Interjections for Joy
Used to express happiness, excitement, or delight.
Examples: Hurrah! Hurray! Wow! Yay!
Usage:
Hurrah! Our team won the championship.
Wow! This view is amazing.
2. Interjections for Sorrow
Used to convey sadness, grief, or regret.
Examples: Alas! Oh no! Oh dear!
Usage:
Alas! She missed the last train.
Oh no! I forgot my keys.
3. Interjections for Surprise
Used to show shock or astonishment.
Examples: What! Oh! Ah! Really!
Usage:
What! Is that true?
Oh! I didn’t see you there.
4. Interjections for Anger or Disgust
Used to express frustration, annoyance, or disapproval.
Examples: Ugh! Oh! Damn!
Usage:
Ugh! This room is so messy.
Damn! I missed the deadline.
5. Interjections for Greeting
Used to greet someone or catch attention.
Examples: Hello! Hi! Hey!
Usage:
Hello! How are you today?
Hey! Stop that!
6. Interjections for Approval or Encouragement
Used to show agreement or to cheer someone on.
Examples: Bravo! Well done! Good!
Usage:
Bravo! That was an excellent performance.
Well done! You’ve passed the exam.
Position of Interjections
1. At the Beginning of a Sentence:
Hurrah! We have completed the project.
2. In the Middle of a Sentence (for emphasis):
The weather, oh, is just perfect today.
3. Standalone:
Wow!
Punctuation Rules with Interjections
1. Use an Exclamation Mark (!) After Strong Emotions:
Example: Alas! I broke my phone.
2. Use a Comma (,) for Mild Emotions:
Example: Well, let’s give it another try.
3. In Dialogues, Interjections May End with Ellipses (…):
Example: Ah… I’m not sure about that.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overusing Interjections:
Incorrect: Wow! Amazing! Wow! That’s incredible!
Correct: Wow! That’s incredible.
2. Using Interjections in Formal Writing:
Avoid using interjections in professional or academic writing.
Incorrect: Oops! The data was incorrectly entered.
Correct: The data was entered incorrectly.
3. Forgetting Proper Punctuation:
Incorrect: Oh what a beautiful day.
Correct: Oh! What a beautiful day
Why Are Interjections Important?
1. Add Emotional Depth: They make communication more expressive and engaging.
2. Create a Personal Touch: Interjections can convey the speaker’s personality and mood.
3. Enhance Storytelling: They make narratives vivid and relatable.