We can use two adjectives to describe a noun. To make our writing flow nicely we use a coordinate and cumulative adjectives.

Coordinate Adjectives

Two adjectives of equal weight constitute coordinate adjectives. We separate them with a comma.

Example

• The girl had a vibrant, gorgeous smile.

Cumulative Adjectives

A cumulative adjective has two adjectives that build upon each other. There order only works one-way to create meaning. These adjectives cannot have the word and separate them.

Example

• The sickly sweet smile scared everyone.

Compound Adjectives

Compound adjectives in this category consist of at least two hyphenated words.

Example

She loved her six-foot snake.