Commas with coordinate adjectives
key notes :
| What are Coordinate Adjectives? |
Coordinate adjectives are two or more adjectives that describe the same noun equally.
They need a comma between them.
Example:
🟢 She has a smart, confident personality.
| How to Check if Adjectives are Coordinate? |
Use the Two Tests 👇
| Test | How it Works | If “YES” → Use a comma ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| 🔄 Switch Test | Can you swap the adjectives and the sentence still makes sense? | Yes |
| ➕ “And” Test | Can you place “and” between the adjectives? | Yes |
Example:
✔ “It was a cold, rainy night.”
Switch Test: rainy, cold night ✅
“And” Test: cold and rainy night ✅
→ Use a comma!
| When NOT to Use a Comma |
Do NOT use a comma when adjectives are NOT coordinate.
This happens when adjectives work together as a unit.
These adjectives must stay in a fixed order:
➤ Opinion → Size → Age → Shape → Colour → Origin → Material → Purpose → Noun
Example:
🔴 He wore a big red shirt.
Can we say red big shirt? ❌
→ No comma
More Examples:
🚫 a beautiful silk saree
🚫 three large brown dogs
| Examples with & without Commas |
| ✅ Correct with Comma | ❌ No Comma Needed |
|---|---|
| a long, tiring journey | a small blue bag |
| a bright, sunny day | three tall Indian buildings |
| a funny, exciting movie | a delicious chocolate cake |
| Quick Tip to Remember |
💡 If you can add “and” or switch the order, add a comma!
Example:
calm, helpful teacher
= calm and helpful teacher ✔
→ Add comma!
| Practice Sentences (Identify if comma is needed) |
- She bought a soft cozy blanket.
- It was a long tiring journey.
- They live in a small white house.
Let’s practice!🖊️
