NUMERICAL ADJECTIVE Meaning and
Definition
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A numerical adjective is a type of adjective that is used to indicate or represent a number or quantity in a sentence. It is a specific subset of adjectives that provide information regarding a specific measurement, count, or estimation. These adjectives play a crucial role in describing and quantifying the nouns they modify.
Numerical adjectives can be used to express cardinal numbers, which represent precise quantities such as one, two, three, etc. They can also represent ordinal numbers, which indicate the order or position of objects or individuals, like first, second, third, etc. Additionally, numerical adjectives can include adjectives that convey approximate quantities, such as countless, numerous, many, few, etc.
The function of numerical adjectives is to impart clarity and precision to the noun they modify. By using these adjectives, speakers or writers can communicate specific quantities, comparisons, or rankings, thus enhancing the overall meaning and comprehension of the sentence. For instance, phrases like "Three cats," "First place," or "Countless stars" all rely on numerical adjectives to convey exact numbers or provide context.
Overall, numerical adjectives are a fundamental linguistic tool that allows individuals to express numbers, quantities, or rankings in a diverse range of contexts, from simple cardinal numbers to more complex measurements or estimations.
Etymology of NUMERICAL ADJECTIVE
The etymology of the word "numerical" can be traced back to the Latin word "numerarius", which means "pertaining to number". The Latin word "numero" means "I number" or "I count", and it is derived from the ancient Greek word "nemeros", meaning "to divide" or "to distribute".
The term "adjective" comes from the Latin word "adiectivus", which means "added" or "attributed". It is a combination of the Latin words "ad", meaning "to" or "towards", and "iacere", meaning "to throw" or "to lay down". Adjectives are words that describe or modify nouns or pronouns, adding attributes or qualities to them.
Therefore, when combined, "numerical adjective" refers to an adjective that pertains to numbers or counting, emphasizing its attribute of numerical quantity or order.
