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. |