Adjectives and Adverbs

Adjectives & adverbs: Writers must distinguish between adjectives and adverbs.

Adjectives modify nouns should be placed before the noun.

A nation just will not neglect its people. (Incorrect)

A just nation will not neglect its people. (Correct)

Use adverbs, not adjectives, to modify verbs.  Adverbs are often (but not always) adjectives with -ly on the end. 

He stepped light while walking the haunted pathway.  (Incorrect)

He stepped lightly while walking the haunted pathway.  (Correct)

Adjectives can also modify nouns through a linking verb.  Use adjective form here.

The burrito seemed enormously.  (Incorrect)

The burrito seemed enormous.  (Correct)

I feel terribly today.  (Incorrect) – unless you meant your fingers were numb, modifying “feel.”

I feel terrible today (Correct) – here the adjective modifies “I.”

The MLCKRB (Master List Code Key and Rule Book): An English Grammar & Style Handbook by Jared Aragona, CC BY 4.0