1. to convert a word or phrase into a noun or give it the function of a noun
Usage: linguistics; grammar

Examples

• The linguist explained how to substantivize adjectives by adding suffixes.
• In English, we can substantivize the adjective ‘poor’ to create ‘the poor.’
• The grammar book shows how different languages substantivize verbs.
• Teachers often substantivize action words to help students understand abstract concepts.
• The process to substantivize ‘beautiful’ results in ‘beauty.’
• Writers sometimes substantivize entire phrases for stylistic effect.