Adjectives are words that describe or modify nouns, but not all adjectives are created equal. Some adjectives are used for emphasis or to give extra weight to the noun they are describing. These are known as emphatic adjectives. In this article, we will explore what emphatic adjectives are, how to identify them, and how to use them effectively in your writing.
What are Emphatic Adjectives?
Emphatic adjectives are a type of adjective that is used to add extra emphasis to a noun. They are usually placed before the noun and are often used in spoken English to express strong emotions or to make a point more strongly. Examples include “utter,” “absolute,” “complete,” “total,” and “unconditional.”
They can be used in a variety of ways. They can be used to emphasize a quality or attribute of a noun, to express the speaker’s opinion or attitude, or to add drama or excitement to a sentence.
Examples:
- The book was an utter disappointment.
- The meal was an absolute delight.
- The party was a complete disaster.
- The concert was a total success.
- The love between them was unconditional.
How to Identify Emphatic Adjectives
Emphatic adjectives are usually easy to spot because they are used to express a strong emotion or to add emphasis to a noun. They are often placed before the noun they are modifying and are frequently used in conjunction with other adjectives. Look for words that add an extra layer of meaning or significance to a sentence.
Examples:
- He is an amazing writer. (normal adjective)
- He is an absolutely amazing writer. (emphatic adjective)
- The team played well. (normal adjective)
- The team played exceptionally well. (emphatic adjective)
How to Use Emphatic Adjectives
Using them correctly can add extra impact to your writing. Here are some tips for using them effectively:
- Use them sparingly: They are powerful words that can quickly become overused. Use them sparingly and only when necessary to add extra emphasis to a sentence.
- Be precise: They should be used to describe the specific quality or attribute you want to emphasize. Choose your words carefully and make sure they accurately reflect the meaning you want to convey.
- Consider your audience: Theycan be very effective in spoken English, but they may not be appropriate for all types of writing. Consider your audience and the tone you want to convey before using emphatic adjectives.
- Use them with other adjectives: Emphatic adjectives are often used in conjunction with other adjectives to add extra impact to a sentence. Use them together with descriptive adjectives to create a vivid and engaging picture for your reader.
Conclusion
In conclusion, emphatic adjectives are a powerful tool for writers looking to add extra emphasis to their writing. By using them carefully and thoughtfully, you can create vivid, engaging sentences that capture your reader’s attention and leave a lasting impression.
Example Exercises
