Adjectives: Definition and Functions

Questions and Answers

Which of the following examples correctly follows the order of adjectives in a string?

A big old Italian restaurant

A small red antique box (correct)

An old large wooden chair

A beautiful leather black purse

Which prefix correctly transforms the adjective 'certain' into its opposite meaning?

dis

non

un (correct)

What is the function of the phrase 'the + adjective' in a sentence?

To describe an action

To form a comparative adjective

To categorize a group of people (correct)

To specify a particular noun

Which of the following represents a correct formation of an adjective with opposite meanings?

<p>logical – illogical</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these sentences uses an adjective to modify a noun appropriately?

<p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Definition and Function of Adjectives

Adjectives describe or modify nouns.
Example: "fairy tale" is an imaginary story with unrealistic characters in a fantastic setting.

Purpose of Adjectives

Help to escape the real world and refresh the mind.

Placement of Adjectives

Typically appear directly before the noun they modify.
- Examples:
  - A pretty girl
  - Red flowers
  - A long stick
  - Heavy boxes
  - Warm weather

Formation of Opposite Adjectives

Adjectives of opposite meanings are commonly created by adding prefixes such as:
- un (clear – unclear)
- in (important – unimportant)
- dis (able – disable, assemble – disassemble)
Additional examples:
- predictable – unpredictable
- believable – unbelievable
- common – uncommon
- aware – unaware
- ambiguous – unambiguous
- conventional – unconventional
- certain – uncertain
- definite – indefinite
- correct – incorrect
- comparable – incomparable
- complete – incomplete
- evitable – inevitable
- expensive – inexpensive
- content – discontent
- similar – dissimilar

Order of Adjectives

When using multiple adjectives, they should follow a specific order:
- Size/Shape, Age, Color, Origin, Material
- Examples:
  - A big brown house
  - A small old English desk
  - A beautiful black Italian leather purse
  - Delicious Chinese food

Use of "The + Adjective"

"The + adjective" can denote a class or group of people, functioning as a noun.
- Examples:
  - the old
  - the young
  - the poor
  - the rich
  - the oppressed
  - the homeless
Example in context: "This popular TV show is loved by the old."

Description

Explore the role and purpose of adjectives in language. This quiz covers their definition, common placements, and how to form opposites. Test your understanding of descriptive language and the nuances of adjective usage.