Collective Noun - Understand Meaning, Origin and Usage with Examples

What is a collective noun?

A collective noun is a word used to describe a group of people, animals, or things as a single unit or entity. It represents a collection of individuals or items as a whole.

Can you give some examples of collective nouns?

 Some common examples of collective nouns are "herd" (for cattle), "flock" (for birds), "team" (for athletes), and "school" (for fish).

Are collective nouns singular or plural?

Collective nouns can be either singular or plural, depending on how they are used in a sentence. For example, "The team is playing well" (singular) and "The team are arguing among themselves" (plural).

How do I know whether to use a singular or plural verb with a collective noun?

The choice between a singular or plural verb depends on whether you are emphasizing the group as a single entity or the individuals within the group. If you're focusing on the group as a whole, use a singular verb. If you're highlighting the individuals within the group, use a plural verb.

What are some other examples of less common collective nouns?

Some less common collective nouns include "clique" (for a close-knit group of friends), "gaggle" (for a group of geese), and "troop" (for a group of scouts or soldiers).