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Grammar · Word basics

Adjective

Specific adjectives to describe problems and tone — beyond generic words like good or bad.

FreeCELPIPTestGrammar lesson

Why Strong Adjectives Matter for CELPIP

Generic adjectives like "bad," "good," or "big" don't impress CELPIP examiners. Specific, precise adjectives show language control and earn higher scores.

Skill Level CELPIP Score Impact
Generic adjectives (bad, good, big, small) CLB 5–6 (weak vocabulary)
Specific adjectives (inadequate, urgent, structurally unsound) CLB 9–10 (sophisticated writing)

The Reality: Replace "bad" with more precise adjectives like "inadequate," "insufficient," or "hazardous." This shows CLB 8+ vocabulary.

Generic vs. Specific: Examples

Generic Specific Why It's Stronger
"The apartment is bad." "The apartment is structurally unsound and poorly maintained." Shows precision and sophistication
"The problem is serious." "The persistent heating malfunction poses a significant health risk." More impactful and professional
"The service is bad." "The service is inadequate and unresponsive." Clearer and more forceful
"The issue is big." "The issue has escalated and requires immediate intervention." Professional tone

Adjectives by Category for CELPIP Writing

Describing Problems

broken, damaged, defective, inadequate, insufficient, faulty, unsafe, hazardous, deteriorating, persistent

Describing Urgency

urgent, immediate, pressing, critical, crucial, essential, required, necessary

Describing Conditions

moldy, damp, corroded, stained, cracked, leaking, malfunctioning, deteriorated, dilapidated

Describing Responsibility

responsible, liable, accountable, negligent, derelict (in duty)

Describing Attitudes/Actions

unresponsive, dismissive, negligent, slow, delayed, ineffective, inadequate

Placement: Adjectives Come BEFORE Nouns

✅ "The broken heater is not functioning."

✅ "The persistent water damage requires urgent attention."

❌ "The heater broken is not functioning." (Wrong)

Tips for CLB 8+ Adjective Use

1. Combine adjectives for impact:

  • ❌ "The apartment is old."
  • ✅ "The apartment is structurally deficient, poorly ventilated, and inadequately maintained."

2. Use adjectives with nouns, not just with "is":

  • ❌ "The issue is serious and complex."
  • ✅ "The serious, complex issue requires immediate attention."

3. Show specificity:

  • ❌ "I have a bad heating problem."
  • ✅ "The heating system is non-functional during winter months, creating uninhabitable conditions."

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