Dictionary-enhanced word family
Word Forms of “Shun”
To keep away from someone or something on purpose; to deliberately avoid being near them.
Word Family of Shun
Some English words keep the same spelling as a noun and a verb. Context tells you which form is being used.
How to Use Each Word Form in a Sentence
- After the scandal, many people shunned him and refused to associate with him. C2
- She has shunned public attention throughout her career, preferring privacy. C2
- The researcher shunned controversial topics to maintain her scientific credibility. C2
Origin and Word Formation of Shun
From Old English 'scunian' (to abhor, avoid). Possibly from Proto-Germanic root meaning 'to shrink back'. Used in English since at least 9th century with consistent meaning of avoidance.
Common Word Form Mistakes with Shun
Wrong: She shunned to speak publicly.
Correct: She shunned public speaking. / She shunned speaking publicly.
'Shun' takes a noun or gerund object, not an infinitive. Use gerund (-ing) form.
Wrong: They shun the newcomer because strange accent.
Correct: They shun the newcomer because of their strange accent. / They shun the newcomer because they have a strange accent.
After 'because', use 'of' with noun or add a verb clause. Incomplete clause is incorrect.
Frequently Asked Questions About Word Forms of Shun
What are the word forms of “shun”?
The confirmed forms are shown in the word family cards above. Missing parts of speech are hidden instead of filled with placeholder text.
What part of speech is “shun”?
“shun” is primarily a verb. Some forms above show how the same root works as other parts of speech.
Can “shun” be both a noun and a verb?
Yes. Some words keep the same spelling across parts of speech; the surrounding sentence shows the function.
Where does “shun” come from?
From Old English 'scunian' (to abhor, avoid). Possibly from Proto-Germanic root meaning 'to shrink back'. Used in English since at least 9th century with consistent meaning of avoidance.