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Compound Adjective definition, usages and examples

Compound Adjective definition, usages and examples

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05/22/2023

Compound adjectives are formed by combining two or more words to create a single adjective that describes or modifies a noun. The words in a compound adjective are typically hyphenated or written as a single word.

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.

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