Where to Put “Only”, and Why It Matters More Than It Looks
The same seven words carry seven meanings depending on where one of them sits. Most misplaced modifiers are invisible until…
Adjective lists for every subject you might write about, and plain-English guides to using them well. Free, and written to be read in a couple of minutes.
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One half teaches you to use adjectives well. The other hands you the words.
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How adjectives behave in a sentence — the order they fall into, how they compare, when they carry opinion rather than fact, and how to reach for a vivid word without overreaching.
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Recently published
The same seven words carry seven meanings depending on where one of them sits. Most misplaced modifiers are invisible until…
· 2 min read
Fast, hard, late and straight are adverbs with no -ly at all. Friendly, lonely and lively are adjectives that look…
· 2 min read
"I'm good" is not an error. "She sings good" is. The line between them is the same one that decides…
· 2 min read
Every one of these is a correctly spelled word, so nothing will flag it. The only defence is knowing the…
· 2 min read
One takes an object and one does not, which would be simple except that the past tense of "lie" is…
· 2 min read
One means repeatedly, the other means without stopping. A handful of near-identical pairs carry real distinctions, and a handful carry…
· 2 min read
Worth your time
The English language offers a rich tapestry of adjectives to color our descriptions and bring scenes to life. When it…
· 16 min read
Adjectives are the vibrant colors in the landscape of language, adding depth and detail to our descriptions. When it comes…
· 15 min read
Texture, the feel of a surface, is a vital element in descriptive language. Understanding adjectives that convey texture allows us…
· 13 min read
Carnival is a vibrant celebration filled with dazzling sights, sounds, and experiences. To truly capture the essence of this festive…
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Plain-English grammar guides and curated adjective lists. Free to read, checked against Merriam-Webster, Chicago and AP before publication.
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