Commas Between Adjectives FLASHCARD

Front

What is the rule for using commas between adjectives?

Back

Use commas between adjectives that equally describe a noun. If the adjectives can be separated by 'and' without changing the meaning, use a comma.

Front

When do you NOT use a comma between adjectives?

Back

Do not use a comma when the adjectives are cumulative, meaning they build on each other to describe the noun.

Front

Example of correct comma usage: 'The big, fluffy dog.' Why is this correct?

Back

The adjectives 'big' and 'fluffy' are coordinate adjectives that can be separated by 'and' (big and fluffy), so a comma is used.

Front

Example of incorrect comma usage: 'The old wooden chair.' Why is this incorrect?

Back

'Old' and 'wooden' are cumulative adjectives; they work together to describe the chair, so no comma is needed.

Front

What is a coordinate adjective?

Back

Coordinate adjectives are adjectives that can be joined by 'and' and can be rearranged without changing the meaning.

Front

What is a cumulative adjective?

Back

Cumulative adjectives are adjectives that build on each other and cannot be rearranged or separated by 'and'.

Front

Correct the sentence: 'I have many, fleece hats.'

Back

I have many fleece hats.

Front

Correct the sentence: 'Mason threw his stinky, old, socks on his brother's bed.'

Back

Mason threw his stinky old socks on his brother's bed.

Front

Correct the sentence: 'Alfonso ate the cold, rotten salad.'

Back

Alfonso ate the cold rotten salad.

Front

Do you need a comma in this sentence: 'The two tall men were fishing in the lake.'?

Back

No, you do not need a comma. 'Two tall' are cumulative adjectives.