Complements of Adjectives
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Some adjectives can be followed by other words and expressions which complete their meaning. These adjective complements can be of different kinds. For example, some adjectives are followed by preposition + noun / ’ing form. Others are followed by infinitives.
- She is interested in philosophy. (Here the adjective interested is followed by a preposition + noun.)
- She is interested in learning philosophy. (Here the adjective interested is followed by a preposition + ’ing form.)
- We are ready to start. (Here the adjective ready is followed by an infinitive.)
- You don’t look happy to see me.
If the infinitive has its own subject, it is introduced by for.
- She is anxious for her daughter to get a good job. (= She is anxious that her daughter should get a good job.)
Many adjectives can be followed by more than one kind of complement.
- I am pleased about your success. (preposition + noun)
- I am pleased to accept this invitation. (to-infinitive)
- I am pleased that you are doing well in your studies. (that-clause)
Note that if the adjective is followed by a noun, we put the complement after the noun.
- He is a difficult person to work with. (NOT He is a difficult to work with person.)
Sections in this article
Degrees of Comparison
Comparison using positive adjectives and adverbs
Comparison using comparative adjectives and adverbs
Comparison using superlative adjectives and adverbs
The difference between comparative and superlative
Degree modifiers with comparatives and superlatives
Making comparisons
Comparison of adjectives and adverbs
Pronouns after as and than
See also
Tenses exercises and worksheets
Mistakes with verbs | Exercise 1
Mistakes with verbs | Exercise 2
Mistakes with verbs | Exercise 3
Mistakes with verbs | Exercise 4