Introduction to Reading English/Adjectives
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Adjectives
[edit | edit source]Adjectives are words that describe nouns.
Syntax
[edit | edit source]In English, adjectives go before nouns, for example 'The black cat.'
Gradable and non-gradable
[edit | edit source]Adjectives are generally gradable or non-gradable. Gradable adjectives can take the word "very", but not the words "completely" or "absolutely", whereas non-gradable adjectives are the reverse: they sound strange with the word "very" and do take the words "absolutely" or "completely."
Gradable | Non-gradable |
---|---|
very cold | |
absolutely freezing |
Examples of gradable and non-gradable adjective pairs:
Gradable | Non-gradable |
---|---|
hot | scorching |
good | perfect |
bad | awful |
funny | hilarious |
interesting | fascinating |
Choosing a gradable or non-gradable adjective can change the force of your language, which is important for example for communicating your feelings when giving praise or making complaints, or for using exaggeration to make a story more interesting.