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LL.1 Learn to identify and understand adjectives

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What are adjectives?

Adjectives are words that describe or modify nouns and pronouns. They give more information about a person, place, thing, or idea.

Examples:
  • The red apple is on the table.
  • She wore a beautiful dress.
  • We saw a tall building downtown.
Note

Adjectives answer questions like: What kind? How many? Which one?

Where do adjectives go in a sentence?

Adjectives usually come before the noun they describe, but they can also come after a linking verb.

Examples:
  • The friendly dog wagged its tail. (before the noun)
  • The dog is friendly. (after the linking verb)
  • The blue sky looks clear. (before and after)
Note

Linking verbs such as is, seem, look, feel often connect adjectives to nouns or pronouns.

Adjectives that compare

Adjectives can show comparisons between two or more nouns. Use the comparative form for two things and the superlative form for three or more things.

Examples:
  • This book is shorter than that one. (comparative)
  • She is the fastest runner in the class. (superlative)
  • Today is hotter than yesterday. (comparative)
Note

Comparatives often end in -er, while superlatives often end in -est. For longer adjectives, use β€œmore” or β€œmost.”

Types of adjectives

Adjectives can tell about different qualities such as number, size, shape, color, or opinion.

Examples:
  • Three birds flew away. (number)
  • The round ball rolled. (shape)
  • She likes the green sweater. (color)
  • That was a wonderful surprise. (opinion)
Note

Knowing the type of adjective can help you describe things more clearly and with more detail.

Using adjectives in sentences

Adjectives make writing more vivid by adding detail. Use them carefully so your sentences are clear and descriptive without being too wordy.

Examples:
  • The curious cat climbed onto the tall shelf.
  • He wore a warm, cozy sweater on the cold morning.
  • The exciting story kept us reading all night.
Note

Too many adjectives can make a sentence confusing. Choose the most important ones to make your writing stronger.