Adjectives

Adjectives

Adjectives are essential in English grammar, as they describe or modify nouns and pronouns. They bring details and clarity to sentences, enhancing meaning and creating vivid imagery.

Definition:

Adjectives are words that provide additional information about the size, shape, color, quantity, quality, or other characteristics of a noun or pronoun.

Categories and Examples:

• Size: Large, petite, towering, compact, immense Example: “An immense tree shaded the garden.”
• Color: Crimson, azure, emerald, golden, ivory Example: “She painted the walls a soothing ivory.”
• Shape: Oval, spherical, angular, cubic, elongated Example: “The angular sculpture caught everyone’s attention.”

Placement of Adjectives:

• Adjectives usually appear before the noun they describe, but they can follow linking verbs like “is,” “seems,” or “looks.”
• Examples: “A graceful swan.” (Before the noun)
  “The swan looks graceful.” (After the linking verb “looks”)

Types of Adjectives:

• Descriptive Adjectives: Provide details about the noun. Example: “The vibrant garden bloomed with flowers.”
• Limiting Adjectives: Specify quantity or define the noun. Example: “Two puppies played in the yard.”
• Comparative and Superlative Forms: Examples: “Brighter” (comparative), “Brightest” (superlative)
• Predicate Adjectives: Follow linking verbs to describe the subject. Example: “The sky appears clear.”

Adjective Order:

When using multiple adjectives, follow the typical order: opinion, size, age, shape, color, origin, material, purpose.

Example: “She carried a small, antique, wooden box.”