[Grammar] In this sentence, the word 'vegetarian' is used as an adjective or a noun?

[Luwilde]

'He used to catch media attention for being vegetarian.'

Should it be 'a vegetarian'? Or is it okay in that way?

Thank you.

 

[MikeNewYork]

'He used to catch media attention for being vegetarian.'

Should it be 'a vegetarian'? Or is it okay in that way?

Thank you.

As written it is an adjective. If you add the indefinite article it is a noun. Either way is fine.

 

[Luwilde]

As written it is an adjective. If you add the indefinite article it is a noun. Either way is fine.

In the case I use it as a noun, is it an abstract noun?

 

[MikeNewYork]

In the case I use it as a noun, is it an abstract noun?

No, a vegetarian is a real human being (or herbivore if it is an animal).