Using adjectives to modify nouns

Adjectives ordinarily precede the nouns they modify:

Following linking verbs, adjectives can also function as subject complements. When an adjective functions as a subject complement, it describes the subject.

The verbs smell, taste, look, and feel sometimes, but not always, function as linking verbs. If the word following one of these verbs describes the subject, use an adjective; if the word following the verb modifies the verb, use an adverb.

The adjective cautious describes the detective; the adverb cautiously modifies the verb looked.

Linking verbs suggest states of being, not actions. Looked, for instance, can suggest a state of being, as in the first example, or it can be an action verb, as in the second example. To look cautious suggests the state of being cautious; to look cautiously is to perform an action in a cautious way.

The verb smell suggests a state of being, not an action. Therefore, it should be followed by an adjective, not an adverb.

The verb looked is a linking verb suggesting a state of being, not an action. The adjective good is appropriate following the linking verb to describe drawings.

Exercise: Adjectives and adverbs 1

Exercise: Adjectives and adverbs 2

Exercise: Adjectives and adverbs 3

Related topics:

good vs. well

Subject complements

subject complement A word or word group that follows a linking verb and either renames or describes the subject.