Gradable
A term used in linguistics, particularly in semantics and syntax, to describe an adjective, adverb, or other modifier that can express different degrees or levels of the quality it describes. gradable words can be modified by intensifiers (e.g., 'very,' 'extremely,' 'slightly') and can be used in comparative and superlative forms (e.g., 'bigger,' 'biggest'). The ability to be placed on a scale or continuum based on the intensity or degree to which a quality is present is a key characteristic. This contrasts with non-gradable words, which represent absolute qualities or states.
Gradable meaning with examples
- The 'hot' coffee was gradable; you could say it was 'very hot' or 'slightly hot' because it allows for intensity scaling. You can compare it as 'hotter' or 'hottest'. He found the water 'cold' gradable, noting how much he could feel the cold. This shows that 'hot' and 'cold' can go through degrees of temperature.
- She thought the performance was 'good', gradable. She could say it was 'very good' or 'excellent'. The concert was good gradable, you could say it was 'better' than last week's performance and the other show will be the 'best'. This demonstrates that 'good' can be modified to show a degree of the word.
- The 'fast' car demonstrated that 'fast' is gradable. You could describe it as 'extremely fast'. Also, the car was 'faster' than the truck, and it was the 'fastest' car at the race. Therefore, 'fast' is a great example for showing degrees of the word, showcasing it's gradable abilities.
- The soup was 'delicious,' gradable. Adding more seasoning made it 'even more delicious'. The soup was 'more delicious' than the stew, and the chefs will make the 'most delicious' meals. Showing us how 'delicious' can change in degrees depending on different levels.
- The weather was 'warm', gradable. She felt the weather was 'slightly warm'. They thought today was 'warmer' than yesterday. It was the 'warmest' day of the year so far, demonstrating how different degrees of 'warm' can impact the sentence.
