The Position of Adjectives
CONTENT
In English, the position of the adjectives is always the same: you have an adjective, then a noun. However, in French, it's not that simple - and very often, you might need to think for a moment before constructing a sentence.
Native
Translation
Une avenue verte.
A green avenue.
After the Noun
Rule 1: Usually, the adjective in French comes after the associated noun.
Native
Translation
Un livre intéressant.
An interesting book.
This includes the colors and a group of adjectives that are somehow connected to each other.
Native
Translation
Une feuille jaune.
A yellow leaf.
Sa voiture n'était ni neuve ni propre.
Her car was neither new nor clean.
Before the Noun
Rule 2: Short, frequently used adjectives come before the noun (beau, bon, grand, gros, faux, jeune, joli, mauvais, petit, vieux).
Native
Translation
Un petit garçon.
A small boy.
Rule 3: If a noun is accompanied by two or more adjectives that are not connected, they frame the noun.
Native
Translation
Il a une grande armoire noire.
He has a big black wardrobe.
Exception: There are certain adjectives that can go either before a noun or afer it, but their position impacts the meaning. For example:
Native
Translation
Cher ami.
Dear friend.
Un livre cher.
An expensive book.
Quiz
1/4
Une _ table _
0
correct answers.