Commas Between Adjectives FLASHCARD

Front

What is the rule for using commas between adjectives?

Back

Commas are used between adjectives that equally describe a noun. If the adjectives can be separated by 'and' without changing the meaning, a comma is needed.

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. For example, 'two tall men' does not need a comma.

Front

Example of correct comma usage between adjectives: 'The big, red balloon.' Why is this correct?

Back

This is correct because 'big' and 'red' are coordinate adjectives that can be separated by 'and': 'big and red balloon'.

Front

Example of incorrect comma usage: 'The big red balloon.' Why is this incorrect?

Back

This is incorrect because 'big' and 'red' are cumulative adjectives that describe the balloon together, 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

Identify the correct sentence: 'I have many fleece hats.' Why is this correct?

Back

This is correct because 'many' is a limiting adjective that does not require a comma before 'fleece'.

Front

Identify the correct sentence: 'The kind, elderly gentleman handed me a flower.' Why is this correct?

Back

This is correct because 'kind' and 'elderly' are coordinate adjectives that describe the gentleman.

Front

What is the purpose of using commas in a list of adjectives?

Back

Commas clarify the separation of adjectives, making it clear that each adjective independently describes the noun.

Front

Choose the correct version: 'That's a very fancy medical office.' Why is this correct?

Back

This is correct because 'very' modifies 'fancy,' and 'fancy' directly describes 'medical office' without needing a comma.