Gradable/Non-Gradable
What Is It?
Gradable/Non-Gradable refers to the contrast between adjectives that accept degrees and adjectives that are extreme or absolute.
B1-B2 reference topic in Adjectives, Adverbs, and Modifiers.
Why Use It?
- Choose suitable intensifiers.
- Avoid unnatural combinations.
- Make descriptions precise.
Formation and Patterns
| Use | Pattern | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Gradable | very/quite/rather + adjective | The task is very difficult. |
| Extreme | absolutely/really + extreme adjective | The result was absolutely perfect. |
| Absolute | completely/totally + adjective | The answer is completely wrong. |
Common Mistakes
- Saying very perfect or very impossible.
- Using absolutely with ordinary gradable adjectives too often.
- Treating all adjectives as gradable.
Exceptions & Nuances
- Some adjectives can be gradable in one context and absolute in another.