An English Grammar Guide to Using Adjectives Correctly

An adjective describes how something 'is.' For this reason, we often use the verb 'to be' when using adjectives. Adjectives are used to describe nouns. There are two types of sentences we use with adjectives, which are detailed below.

Subject + To Be + Adjective

Example:

Tom is shy.
Alice is happy.

Subject + Verb + Adjective + Noun

Example:

That is a big building!
Peter has a fast car.

The adjective is always invariable.

Example: beautiful trees, they are happy

Take note of these important rules to follow when using this sentence pattern.

• Adjectives don't have a singular and plural form OR a masculine, feminine and neutral form.
• Adjectives are always the same! Never add a final –s to an adjective.
• Adjectives can also be placed at the end of a sentence if they describe the subject of a sentence.

​​Example: My doctor is excellent, as opposed to difficults books, which is incorrect

Adjectives Are Placed Before Noun

Example: a wonderful book; very interesting people

Note: Don't place an adjective after the noun

Example: an apple red