"River" is a common noun

Jim stared at Della.

One should respect their parents.

I have no prejudice against her

I can not be false to my friend.

 The machine is out of order.

I can not make out what he says.

what is the time by your watch?

Death is preferable to humiliation.

My father insisted me on going abroad. 

My books were stolen yesterday.

The water in the pond is dirty.

The more you read, the less you understand.

The superlative degree of costly is costliest.

I know the boy. (Passive) = The boy is known to me.