ADJECTIVES

An adjective describes how something ‘is’
so we usually use the verb 'to be'
when using adjectives.
Example: He is a good doctor.

RULE: Adjectives describe nouns.
The adjective is always invariable.
Example: beautiful trees; they are happy

Adjectives DON'T HAVE:
*A singular and plural form
*A masculine, feminine and neuter form
*A final -s to an adjective.

Example of incorrect use: difficults books

*Adjectives can be at the end of a sentence if they describe the subject of a sentence.
Example: My doctor is excellent

RULE: Adjectives are placed before the noun, NEVER after the noun
Example: a wonderful book; very interesting people

*Don't place an adjective after the noun
Example of incorrect use: an apple red

Adjective Placement
When using more than one adjective to describe a noun place the adjectives in the following order before the noun.

NOTE: Try to use no more than three adjectives preceding a noun.

1. Opinion
Example: an interesting book; a boring lecture

2. Dimension
Example: a big apple; a thin wallet

3. Age
Example: a new car; a modern building; an ancient ruin

4. Shape
Example: a square box; an oval mask; a round ball

5. Colour
Example: a pink hat; a blue book; a black coat

6. Origin
Example: some Italian shoes; a Canadian town; an American car

7. Material
Example: a wooden box; a wool sweater; a plastic toy

Examples of nouns modified with three adjectives in the correct order based on the list above. Notice: the adjectives are not separated by commas.

* A wonderful old Italian clock. (opinion - age - origin)
* A big square blue box. (dimension - shape - colour)
* A disgusting pink plastic ornament. (opinion - colour - material)
* Some slim new French trousers. (dimension - age - origin)