Compound Adjective definition, usages and examples

Here are some key points about compound adjectives:

1. Formation: Compound adjectives are formed by combining two or more words, often with a hyphen (-) or as a single word.

   • Example:
     • Well-known: "She is a well-known actress in the industry."
     • High-pitched: "The singer has a high-pitched voice."
     • Red-hot: "Be careful, the metal is red-hot."

2. Descriptive Function: Compound adjectives modify or describe a noun by expressing a specific characteristic or quality.

   • Example:
     • a well-written essay
     • a fast-paced movie
     • a five-year-old child

3. Hyphenation: Some compound adjectives require a hyphen to join the words together. This helps clarify their combined meaning.

   • Example:
     • State-of-the-art: "They installed state-of-the-art technology in the new office."
     • Long-term: "He has long-term goals for his career."
     • Blue-eyed: "The baby has beautiful blue-eyed charm."

4. Single Word: In other cases, the words in a compound adjective are combined into a single word without a hyphen.

   • Example:
     • worldwide
     • breathtaking
     • outspoken

5. Noun + Participle: Compound adjectives can be formed by combining a noun with a present or past participle.

   • Example:
     • Time-saving: "Using a dishwasher is a time-saving solution."
     • Money-making: "He started his own money-making business."
     • Heartwarming: "The movie had a heartwarming ending."

6. Adjective + Noun: Compound adjectives can also be formed by combining an adjective with a noun.

   • Example:
     • dark-haired
     • big-hearted
     • short-tempered

7. Agreement: Compound adjectives are typically treated as a single unit and agree in number with the noun they modify.

   • Example:
     • a two-hour movie
     • two-year-old child

Compound adjectives provide a more specific and nuanced description of nouns by combining multiple words. They help convey a precise characteristic or quality that may not be adequately expressed by a single adjective. By using compound adjectives effectively, you can enhance your writing and create more vivid descriptions.