Proper adjectives are formed from proper nouns. Remember, a proper noun names a specific place or a person (for example, “country” is a common noun but “South Africa” is a proper noun). A proper noun begins with a capital letter and so does the proper adjective, for example “South Africa” is the proper noun and “South African” is the proper adjective. Examples of sentences using proper adjectives:

  • Are you a South African citizen?
  • I enjoy watching Shakespearian plays. (From the proper noun, Shakespeare)
  • Pasta was originally an Italian food, now we eat it all over the world. (From the proper noun, Italy)
  • The Chinese cook with noodles. (From the proper noun, China)
  • British weather is often overcast or rainy. (From the proper noun, Britain)