Compound Adjectives - Definition, Uses, Examples

Compound Adjectives

Compound adjectives are important tools in English grammar that help describe nouns more precisely. Sometimes, a single adjective is not enough to convey the exact meaning, and combining words into a single modifier allows writers to express ideas clearly and concisely. For example, instead of saying “a car that is brand new,” one can say “a brand-new car.” 

Compound adjectives add depth, detail, and clarity to sentences, making writing more engaging and expressive. Understanding Compound Adjectives is essential for students, writers, and professionals who want to improve their writing skills and communicate effectively.

What is a Compound Adjective?

A compound adjective is a combination of two or more words that function together as a single adjective to describe a noun. Usually, these words are connected with hyphens to avoid ambiguity and to make their meaning clear.

Definition: A compound adjective is a multi-word modifier that describes a noun and is often hyphenated when placed before the noun.

Uses:

• To give precise descriptions

• To combine multiple qualities in a single phrase

• To make writing more concise and readable

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Types of Compound Adjectives

Compound adjectives can be formed using different combinations of words. The following are the types of compound adjectives:

1. Adjective + Noun

• Examples: red-hot stove, high-quality product

2. Noun + Noun

• Examples: part-time job, snow-covered mountain

3. Adjective + Past Participle

• Examples: old-fashioned dress, short-tempered person

4. Adverb + Past Participle

• Examples: well-behaved child, highly-rated movie

5. Adverb + Adjective

• Examples: deeply-rooted belief, widely-known fact

6. Noun + Verb (Present Participle)

• Examples: mouth-watering dish, heart-breaking story

7. Adjective + Adjective

• Examples: blue-green color, bitter-sweet memory

These types show the flexibility and descriptive power of compound adjectives in English.

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Compound Adjectives Examples

Compound adjectives can describe people, objects, places, and events. They make sentences more vivid and specific.

Describing People

• A quick-witted student

• A well-dressed gentleman

• A short-tempered manager

Describing Objects

• A long-lasting battery

• A high-speed blender

• A water-resistant jacket

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Describing Places

• A densely-populated city

• A snow-covered hill

• A well-lit room

Describing Events

• A last-minute decision

• A record-breaking performance

• A heart-warming reunion

These compound adjectives examples illustrate how combining words can enhance sentence clarity and meaning.

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Rules for Compound Adjectives

To use compound adjectives correctly, it is important to follow certain rules. These rules help avoid confusion and maintain proper grammar.

1. Use Hyphens

Hyphenate compound adjectives when they appear before a noun.

• Correct: A well-known artist

• Incorrect: A well known artist

2. No Hyphen After the Noun

When the compound adjective follows the noun, hyphenation is usually unnecessary.

• Example: The artist is well known.

3. Avoid Ambiguity

Hyphens help prevent misreading.

• Example: A man-eating tiger (vs. a man eating tiger)

4. Use Dictionaries for Fixed Forms

Some compound adjectives are standard and found in dictionaries, such as high-tech and old-fashioned.

5. Do Not Hyphenate with Adverbs Ending in -ly

• Example: A highly skilled engineer (no hyphen between “highly” and “skilled”)

Following these rules for compound adjectives ensures clarity and correctness in writing.

Compound Adjectives and Compound Nouns

It is important to distinguish between compound adjectives and compound nouns.

• Compound Adjectives describe nouns. Example: A well-known author

• Compound Nouns are nouns made of two words. Example: Toothpaste, fire truck

Understanding this difference helps avoid confusion when forming sentences and using hyphens.

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