Compound nouns
B1 IntermediateCompound nouns are single nouns made from two or more words that function together as one unit. They help you name specific things more precisely, like 'bus driver' or 'toothpaste'.
Overview
A compound noun is a combination of two words that creates a new meaning. The first word usually describes or limits the second word, which is the main noun. For example, a bedroom is a specific type of room used for a bed.
Form
Noun + Noun / Adjective + Noun
Compound nouns appear in three different styles. There are no strict rules for which style to use, so it is best to check a dictionary.
- Open: two separate words (bus stop).
- Hyphenated: words joined by a dash (mother-in-law).
- Closed: two words joined into one (headache).
Examples
Common mistakes
The cars park is full.
The car park is full.
The first noun in a compound noun is usually singular, even if the meaning is plural.
I bought two toothsbrush.
I bought two toothbrushes.
To make a compound noun plural, you usually add 's' to the second word only.
Stress and Meaning
In compound nouns, the stress usually falls on the first word. This helps listeners distinguish between a specific object (a greenhouse for plants) and a noun described by an adjective (a house that happens to be green).
| Type | Example | Stress Pattern |
|---|---|---|
| Compound Noun | a greenhouse | Stress on the first word (GREENhouse) |
| Adjective + Noun | a green house | Stress on both words (green HOUSE) |
Practice
Change 'a shop that sells shoes' into a compound noun.
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a shoe shop
Answer:a shoe shop
Why:The first noun acts as a descriptor and stays singular, even though the shop sells many shoes.
What is the plural form of 'credit card'?
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credit cards
Answer:credit cards
Why:For most compound nouns, the plural 's' is added to the final word.
Which word is the main noun in 'police station'?
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station
Answer:station
Why:The second word is the 'head' or main noun, while 'police' describes what kind of station it is.