Understanding Compound Adjectives: Usage, Rules, and Examples

Definition of Compound Adjective:

A compound adjective is made up of two or more words that work together to describe a noun. These words are often connected by hyphens to show they are a single unit describing the noun. For example, in a well-known author, well-known is a compound adjective describing the author.

Examples:

The beach was sun-soaked.
His presentation was fast-paced.
The couple was well-dressed.
We ate at a family-owned restaurant.

When should we use the hyphen?

We use hyphens in compound adjectives when the words come before the noun they are describing.

Before the Noun:
Use a hyphen when the compound adjective comes directly before the noun.

- A well-known author.

Avoid Ambiguity:
Use a hyphen to avoid confusion or ambiguity.

- A small-business owner vs. A small business owner

With Numbers and Fractions:
Use a hyphen when numbers or fractions are part of the compound adjective.

- A ten-year-old child or A thirds majority.

Adverbs Not Ending in -ly:
Use a hyphen with compound adjectives formed from adverbs that do not end in -ly.

- A well-known fact but A highly regarded scientist (no hyphen with -ly adverbs).

Part-time and High-profile:
Use a hyphen with common compound adjectives like part-time and high-profile.

- A part-time job or A high-profile case.

However, when the compound adjective comes after the noun, the hyphen is usually not needed.

The author is well known.

Comparative Adjectives vs Superlative Adjectives

Comparative Adjectives
Comparative adjectives are used to compare differences between two objects. They typically end in “-er” or are preceded by “more” for longer adjectives.

Examples:

Tall → Taller
Fast → Faster
Beautiful → More Beautiful
Good → Better
Expensive → More Expensive

Superlative Adjectives
Superlative adjectives are used to describe an object that is at the upper or lower limit of a quality. They typically end in “-est” or are preceded by “most” for longer adjectives.

Examples: