Intensifiers

Definition

Intensifiers are adverbs that strengthen the meaning of other words, typically adjectives or other adverbs. They help to emphasize the degree or intensity of the word they modify, making statements more vivid and expressive. By modifying adjectives or adverbs, intensifiers can convey various levels of emotion, certainty, or quantity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Common intensifiers include words like 'very', 'extremely', 'incredibly', and 'really'.
2. Intensifiers can change the tone of a sentence significantly; for example, saying 'It's very cold' feels different than just saying 'It's cold'.
3. Overusing intensifiers can lead to redundancy and weaken writing, so it's important to use them sparingly and effectively.
4. Intensifiers can sometimes be placed before the adjective they modify (e.g., 'very happy') or before another adverb (e.g., 'extremely quickly').
5. The effectiveness of an intensifier often depends on context; some intensifiers might sound more natural in casual conversation than in formal writing.

Review Questions

• How do intensifiers enhance the meaning of adjectives and adverbs in sentences?
  • Intensifiers enhance meaning by adding emphasis to adjectives and adverbs, allowing for a stronger expression of emotions or characteristics. For instance, using 'very' in 'very tall' indicates a greater degree of height compared to simply saying 'tall'. This added emphasis helps convey more vivid imagery and can influence how a reader perceives the described quality.
• Discuss the potential impact of overusing intensifiers in writing. What are the consequences?
  • Overusing intensifiers can lead to redundancy and make writing feel less impactful. When every adjective is accompanied by an intensifier, it can diminish the overall strength of descriptions. Instead of creating emphasis, excessive use can make writing appear weak and unrefined. Therefore, it's essential to balance their use and choose them carefully to ensure clarity and effectiveness.
• Evaluate how intensifiers vary in effectiveness across different contexts, such as formal versus informal writing. What should writers consider?
  • The effectiveness of intensifiers can greatly vary depending on context. In informal writing or spoken language, using intensifiers like 'really' or 'super' may feel natural and relatable. However, in formal writing, such as academic papers or professional reports, these may come off as unprofessional or exaggerated. Writers should consider their audience and purpose when choosing whether to use intensifiers, aiming for clarity and appropriateness in their communication.

Related terms

Adverb: A part of speech that modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, providing additional information about manner, place, time, frequency, degree, etc.

Modifiers: Words or phrases that add detail to other words in a sentence, including adjectives and adverbs that change the meaning or intensity.

Comparative: A form used to compare two items or groups, often ending in '-er' or using 'more' before the adjective or adverb.