英语中形容词在名词后的用法
The usage of adjectives after nouns in English
In English grammar, adjectives usually come before nouns to describe or modify them. However, there are certain situations in which adjectives can also appear after nouns. This usage, known as postpositive adjectives, is less common but adds nuance and emphasis to the description. In this article, we will explore the various scenarios in which adjectives can be placed after nouns and understand the rules governing their usage.include of 用法
1. Historical Perspective:
The use of postpositive adjectives can be traced back to Old and Middle English, where it was a common practice. Over time, the placement of adjectives shifted to the pre-nominal position, which became the standard pattern in Modern English. Nonetheless, postpositive adjectives are still used in specific contexts, such as formal or poetic language, legal terminology, and idiomatic expressions.
2. Set Phrases and Fixed Expressions:
One common context where postpositive adjectives are used is in set phrases and fixed expressions. Examples include "attorney general," "heir apparent," and "court martial." These noun phrases have become established over time, and their word order is fixed regardless of the general rules of adjective placement.
3. Emphasizing the Adjective:
Placing an adjective after the noun can sometimes serve to emphasize the description. By placing it at the end of the phrase, the adjective gains prominence and draws attention. For example, instead of saying, "a beautiful garden," we can say "a garden beautiful." This usage is often seen in poetic or literary contexts where the flow and rhythm of language are given importance.
4. Descriptive Nuance:
In some cases, placing an adjective after a noun can provide a nuanced or subjective desc
ription. For instance, saying "a person wise" conveys the speaker's personal evaluation of the person as wise, whereas "a wise person" is a more neutral description. Here, the postpositive adjective adds a layer of subjectivity or evaluation to the noun it modifies.
5. Exclusivity and Specificity:
Postpositive adjectives can also be used to express exclusivity or specify a particular type or category. When an adjective appears after a noun, it denotes a specific subset of the noun. For example, "the president-elect" refers to the specific person who has been elected as the president, while "the elect president" would be ambiguous and less clear.
6. Lexical Exceptions:
Though the general rule in English is to place adjectives before nouns, there are certain adjectives that are commonly used after nouns. These adjectives, known as lexical exceptions, have a more fixed word order. Examples include "orderly fashion," "courtly manners," and "galore." It is important to note that these exceptions are specific to certain adjectives and cannot be generalized to all.
In conclusion, while the standard placement of adjectives is before the noun, the use of postpositive adjectives adds variety, emphasis, and nuance to the English language. Whether in set phrases, for emphasis, or to denote specificity, the use of adjectives after nouns is a fascinating aspect of grammar that showcases the dynamic nature of language. Mastering the rules and contexts of postpositive adjectives can enhance one's ability to communicate effectively and creatively in English.

版权声明：本站内容均来自互联网，仅供演示用，请勿用于商业和其他非法用途。如果侵犯了您的权益请与我们联系QQ:729038198，我们将在24小时内删除。