Using Commas with Coordinate Adjectives
Commas used with adjectives REVIEW: Adjective-descriptive word that modifies a noun or a pronoun Finn is a sweet boy. Sweet = adjective Finn/boy = noun This novel is both engaging and thrilling. Engaging/thrilling = adjectives Novel = noun
Coordinate Adjectives Coordinate adjectives are adjectives that could be joined by AND because they describe the noun separately Use a comma between coordinate adjectives not joined by AND She was warm and friendly and kind. When not joined by AND use a comma She was a warm, friendly, kind woman.
Coordinate Adjectives You can also spot a coordinate adjective because they can appear in any order without affecting the meaning. Use a comma between coordinate adjectives not joined by AND She was a friendly, warm, kind woman. She was a kind, warm, friendly woman.
Cumulative Adjectives Cumulative adjectives are adjectives that do not modify a noun separately. In other words, they have to stay together in a particular order. DO NOT use a comma between cumulative adjectives. The rich dark chocolate cake was delicious. Three large gray squirrels skittered up the tree.
Review What is an adjective? How can you tell the difference between a coordinate and a cumulative adjective? Think of some examples of both coordinate and cumulative adjectives.