LESSON V.

ADJECTIVES.

Select the words in the following sentences that are used to describe or point out the things named by the nouns:—

1.A tall man gave me this book.
2.That little boy has a kind sister.
3.I bought two sweet oranges.
4.These grassy fields are owned by a rich man.

The word tall describes this particular man. The word this points out the particular book that is meant. Such words modify the nouns with which they are used.

A word used to modify a noun or pronoun is called an adjective.

EXERCISE I.

Name the adjectives in the following sentences, and state the use of each:—

1.I found a rusty knife with a silver handle.
2.Wise ministers and brave warriors flourished during Elizabeth’s reign.
3.The sick girl was watched by a skilful nurse.
4.Otters are much prized for their soft, glossy black fur.
5.I lingered near the hallowed seat with listening ear.
6.His withered cheek and tresses gray,
Seemed to have known a better day.
7.Her aged hand on his strong young arm
She placed; and so, without hurt or harm
He guided the trembling feet along,
Proud that his own were firm and strong.
8.His hair is crisp, and black, and long,
His face is like the tan;
His brow is wet with honest sweat,
He earns whate’er he can,
And looks the whole world in the face,
For he owes not any man.

Model.—The adjectives in the first sentence are a, rusty, a and silver. A points out or indicates the species of the thing knife. Rusty describes the thing knife.

EXERCISE II.

Write sentences containing adjectives used to show:—

1.What quality of thing is spoken of.
2.How many things are spoken of.
3.Which thing is referred to.