A Warning Against Adjective Overuse

Welcome to the Grammar Minute, where we’re saving the English language sixty seconds at a time! I’m Lauren Smyth, and I’m back to warn you—again—about adjectives. Consider this sentence: The gorgeous, colorful sunset rose over the grassy hills, casting dancing shadows over the dewy ground. Sure, that paints a vivid picture. But to most readers, this will feel like too much. Every adjective forces the reader to add complexity to the picture your words generate in their mind. If you use too many adjectives, you risk clashing with the picture they already have or overwhelming them with detail so they forget the bigger picture. Plus, adjectives are a cheap way to “tell” instead of “showing.” This doesn’t mean you can’t use adjectives. It does mean that, like most things, you should use them in moderation—and only when necessary. That’s your Grammar Minute! Visit thegrammarminute.com for more tips and tricks.