Adjectives Quote by Harold Evans
““Adjectives not susceptible to modifiers are: certain, complete, devoid, empty, entire, essential, everlasting, excellent, external, fatal, final, fundamental, harmless, ideal, immaculate, immortal, impossible, incessant, indestructible, infinite, invaluable, invulnerable, main, omnipotent, perfect, principal, pure, round, simultaneous, square, ultimate, unanimous, unendurable, unique, unspeakable, untouchable, whole, worthless.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Literary Word Play, Harold Evans, 1998
A list of adjectives that resist modification, illustrating limits of linguistic flexibility.
In simple terms: Some adjectives cannot be further described.
Key Takeaway
Use precise language; avoid over‑modifying immutable terms.
Themes
language
semantics
writing
clarity
precision
Mood
critical
instructive
Type
analytical
practical
When to use this quote
- editing
- creative writing
- teaching grammar
- advertising copy
- technical documentation
Key Concepts
Lexicography
adjectival rigidity
semantic saturation
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it effective to use immutable adjectives?
- Do they hinder nuanced expression?
A Different Perspective
Over‑reliance on such adjectives may oversimplify complex concepts.
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