Absolute adjectives, also known as non-gradable adjectives, are descriptive words that express a quality or state in its purest or most extreme form. Unlike relative adjectives, which can be modified by degree (e.g., “very happy,” “somewhat tired”), absolute adjectives represent concepts that are typically all-or-nothing.
Key characteristics of absolute adjectives:
- No Degrees of Comparison: They cannot be used in comparative or superlative forms. For example, you can’t say “more perfect” or “most unique.”
- No Intensifiers: They generally don’t work with modifiers like “very” or “extremely.”
- Precise Meaning: They convey a specific, unambiguous state or quality.
Common examples of absolute adjectives include:
- Perfect
- Unique
- Dead
- Pregnant
- Complete
- Eternal
- Impossible
- Universal
While absolute adjectives are meant to represent absolute states, in everyday language, people sometimes use them more flexibly. For instance, someone might say “very unique” in casual conversation, although this is technically incorrect.
Understanding absolute adjectives helps writers and speakers communicate more precisely and avoid logical contradictions in their language use.
