We've already learned about nouns (zelfstandige naamwoorden) and verbs (werkwoorden). In this lesson, you will learn about two different types of words: adjectives and adverbs. These are very commonly coupled with nouns and verbs, and you've likely already seen and used them yourself without noticing. Here, you will learn about the grammatical rules for these words, and how to use them correctly.
When you're ready, watch the video below, and then read the rest of this page.
As noted in the video, there are a few useful ways to tell the difference between adjectives and adverbs. There are more guidelines to keep in mind:
Adjectives can answer the question: "Which ___?" When this, that or these is placed in front of a noun, that word is an adjective. Examples:
"This cat loves to sleep." (Adjective)
"They live in that house." (Adjective)
"Have you seen these men?" (Adjective)
"I am looking for this." (Not an adjective)
Adjectives and adverbs are also used to compare two things.
For adjectives, -er is often added to the end of the word (smarter, faster). Examples:
"You're not smarter than her, you know."
"Do you like dogs or cats better?"
With adverbs, -er can be added to the word, or you can use "more/less <adverb>". Examples:
"They ran longer than we did." (Correct)
"Sometimes he works more quickly than any of us." (Also correct!)
Generally, good is an adjective, and well is an adverb.
"I saw a good movie the other night." (Adjective)
"Those actors performed well. I was impressed." (Adverb)
Exception: When referring to someone's health, well can be an adjective.
"Have you been feeling well?"
"I'm afraid he hasn't been well for a while."
When describing senses (to feel, to look, to hear, etc.), adverbs are used.
"She looked angrily at her son."
"Ever since the accident, I can barely hear."
"They listened carefully to the message."
However, sometimes verbs such as tolook or tofeel do not describe the act of looking at or touching something. In this case, adjectives are used.
"It feels cold in here."
"We should leave; Dad looks angry."
As you can see, there are a lot of things to think about when studying these words, but there is nothing to fear. Once you've read through these guidelines, there is an exercise for you to complete to test your understanding. When you're ready, navigate to the Exercise 1 tab in the menu on the left, or click here.