Definition

To convert a word or phrase into a noun form.

Example

In linguistics, we often substantivize adjectives to create new nouns.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how we can substantivize some adjectives in English?

Yeah, it's interesting how words can change form like that.

Right? I find it fascinating when you turn 'happy' into 'happiness' to substantivize it.

Exactly! It really shows the flexibility of the language.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Substantivize → It is formed from "substantivus" (from Latin, meaning substantive or noun) and "-ize" (a suffix used to form verbs indicating to make or to become). The word means to make something into a noun or to convert it into a substantive form.

Memory Tip

Think of 'substantive' as referring to a noun, and remember that 'substantivize' means to turn something into a noun.

Visually Confused Words