Attributive

An adjective or adjectival phrase used to define a noun, preceding the noun it modifies. attributive adjectives directly modify the noun without the use of a linking verb. They provide essential information about the noun, distinguishing it from other similar entities. Unlike predicative adjectives, which follow a linking verb, attributive adjectives are an integral part of the noun phrase and are not optional additions to the sentence's core meaning. They create a concise and impactful description.

Attributive meaning with examples

• The *red* car sped down the street. Here, the adjective 'red' directly modifies the noun 'car,' indicating its color. It’s attributive because it appears before the noun, providing essential detail about *which* car. The adjective is inseparable from the noun's meaning within the phrase.
• We visited a *historic* building downtown. 'Historic' precedes 'building' and is crucial to understanding the type of building. It's attributive because it helps define the noun. If you removed it, the description would be incomplete, lacking a key characteristic. It provides descriptive specificity before the noun.
• She wore a *silk* scarf around her neck. 'Silk', modifying 'scarf', is attributive. The adjective helps define the noun. The adjective distinguishes it from scarves made of other materials. The adjective is essential for the meaning of the noun phrase; it immediately describes it.
• The company launched a *global* marketing campaign. 'Global' describes the noun 'campaign.' It is positioned directly before the noun and is attributive. It communicates the scope of the campaign, adding vital information. It cannot be removed without a significant change to the meaning of the noun.