Compound Adjective definition, usages and examples
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:
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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."
- Example:
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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
- Example:
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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."
- Example:
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Single Word: In other cases, the words in a compound adjective are combined into a single word without a hyphen.
- Example:
- worldwide
- breathtaking
- outspoken
- Example:
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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."
- Example:
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Adjective + Noun: Compound adjectives can also be formed by combining an adjective with a noun.
- Example:
- dark-haired
- big-hearted
- short-tempered
- Example:
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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
- Example:
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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