adjectives : normal position
1- two positions
Most adjectives can go in two main places in a sentence.
a with a noun, usually before it. This is called 'attributive position'.
The new secretary doesn't like me.
He's going out with a rich businesswoman.
In older English, it was quite common to put adjectives after nouns, especially in poetry and songs.
He came from his palace grand.
In modern English, this only happens in a few cases.
- adjectives before personal pronouns (e.g. Poor you!), after be, seem, look, become and other 'link verbs'. This is called 'predicative position'.
That dress is new, isn't it?
She looks rich. I feel unhappy.
2- adjectives used only before nouns
Some adjectives are used only (or mostly) before nouns. After verbs. other words must be used. Common examples:
elder and eldest Compare:
My elder sister is a pilot. She's three years older than me.
live /laiv/ (meaning 'not dead') Compare:
a live fish It's still alive.
old (referring to relationships that have lasted a long time)
an old friend (not the same as a friend who is old)
little Compare:
a nice little house The house is quite small:
adjectives (2): after nouns and pronouns
intensifying (emphasising) adjectives
He's a mere child.
It's sheer madness.
You bloody fool!
3- adjectives used only after verbs
Some adjectives beginning with a-, and a few others. are used mainly after link verbs, especially be. Common examples: afloat, afraid. alight, alike, alive, alone. asleep, awake. Compare:
- The baby's asleep. - He was afraid.
a sleeping baby - a frightened man
- The ship's still afloat. - a floating leaf
The adjectives ill and well are most common after verbs.
Before nouns, many people prefer other words. Compare:
- He's very well - You look ill
a healthy fit man
Nurses take care of sick people.
4- verb + object + adjective
Another possible position for adjectives is after the object, in the structure
verb + object + adjective.
I'll get the car ready.
Do I make you happy?
Let's paint the kitchen yellow.
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