Page 42 - Just Enough English Grammar Illustrated Book
P. 42
An adjective can also come after the linking verb to be when
the adjective describes the subject of a sentence. In this case,
it is called a predicate adjective.
Example: The hamburger is large.
Subject Linking Predicate
Verb Adjective
In this example, the adjective large describes the subject
hamburger. Calling it a large hamburger is the same as
stating The hamburger is large.
Example: The flippers are green.
Subject Linking Predicate
Verb Adjective
In this example, the adjective green describes the subject
flippers. Calling them green flippers is the same as stating
The flippers are green.
Predicate adjectives are placed after the linking verb.
They always expand on the subject.
Descriptive adjectives can also be formed from a proper noun.
An adjective formed from a proper noun is called
a proper adjective. It is always capitalized.
Proper Noun Proper Adjective Example
Mexico Mexican Mexican student
America American American flag
Proper adjectives can be formed from the name of a particular
person, place, thing, or idea.
2.3 Determiners or Limiting Adjectives
The second group of adjectives is called determiners. Since
determiners limit your choices, they are also called limiting
adjectives. A determiner is placed before the noun it modifies.
A determiner helps to identify a specific noun
rather than describe it.
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