Long, Hot Summer
When each of two adjectives modifies the same noun, put a comma between them. As a test, put the word and between the two adjectives. If it fits, then the adjectives are called coordinate adjectives:
It is going to be a long, hot summer. She was a faithful, sincere friend.
Here's the exception: If the first adjective modifies the idea expressed by the combination of the second adjective and the noun, do not use a comma between the two adjectives:
He favored traditional political institutions.
In this example, the expression political institutions is a single idea. Thus, the two adjectives (traditional and political) do not equally modify the single noun. Rather, the first adjective traditional modifies the single unit political institutions.
Previous: Commas and Noun Appositives
Next: Complementary or Antithetical Expressions
Have a discussion about this article with the community:
Report Comment
We're doing our best to make sure our content is useful, accurate and safe.
If by any chance you spot an inappropriate comment while navigating through our website please use this form to let us know, and we'll take care of it shortly.
Attachment
You need to be logged in to favorite.
Log In