Commas with coordinate adjectives

key notes :

What Are Coordinate Adjectives?

• Coordinate adjectives are two or more adjectives that equally describe the same noun.
• They can be swapped without changing the meaning.
• They require a comma between them.

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How to Identify Coordinate Adjectives?

1. Swap the adjectives
   • If the sentence still makes sense, they are coordinate adjectives.
2. Use “and” between them
   • If the sentence still sounds natural, they are coordinate adjectives.

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Examples of Coordinate Adjectives (With Commas):

• The tall, strong athlete won the race.
• She wore a bright, colorful dress.
• It was a long, tiring journey.

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When NOT to Use a Comma:

• If the adjectives cannot be swapped or “and” doesn’t sound right, they are not coordinate adjectives.
• These are called cumulative adjectives and do not need commas.

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Examples of Cumulative Adjectives (No Comma Needed):

• The big red balloon flew away. (Not “red big”)
• She adopted a cute little puppy. (Not “little cute”)
• We enjoyed a delicious chocolate cake. (Not “chocolate delicious”)

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Quick Tips:

✅ Swap adjectives → If it makes sense, use a comma.
✅ Add “and” → If it sounds natural, use a comma.
✅ No swapping or “and” sounds weird → No comma.

let’s practice!