Thursday, December 12, 2013

grammatical number - Are abstract nouns always singular? Or are there such things as 'plural abstract nouns'?

'Abstract noun' is defined by Oxford as follows:





A noun denoting an idea, quality, or state rather than a concrete
object, e.g. truth, danger, happiness.




Are abstract nouns always singular?
Or are there such things as 'plural abstract nouns'?



Do any of these qualify as 'plural abstract nouns'?





We all want to see this criminal get his just deserts.



Levels of earnings are still rising.



There's a chance it could rain, but odds are that it'll be sunny tomorrow.



The judge awarded her $5,000 in damages.



Please accept my condolences.




When it comes to men, she prefers brains over brawn.



No guts, no glory




EDIT



In no way am I asking about these specific nouns, as the title clearly indicates. So please take these nouns simply possible examples of plural abstract nouns (if there are such things), and try to answer the general question about the existence of plural abstract nouns.

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