In Spanish, adjectives can be placed either before or after the noun they modify. The placement of the adjective can affect the meaning or emphasis of the sentence.
General Rules
Adjectives After the Noun
- Standard Usage: In most cases, adjectives follow the noun they modify. This is the default position and is used for descriptive purposes.
- Example: "El libro rojo."
- Translation: "The red book."
Adjectives Before the Noun
- Emphasis or Meaning Change: Placing an adjective before the noun can convey emphasis, a subjective quality, or a special meaning that might differ from the usual descriptive function.
- Example: "Es un gran hombre."
- Translation: "He is a great man."
- Common Expressions: Some adjectives are commonly placed before the noun, especially when they express quantities, qualities, or are part of fixed expressions.
- Example: "Tengo pocos amigos."
- Translation: "I have few friends."
Meaning Changes Based on Placement
Some adjectives can change meaning depending on whether they are placed before or after the noun.
| Adjective | Before the Noun | After the Noun |
|---|---|---|
| viejo | viejo amigo (longtime friend) | amigo viejo (an elderly friend) |
| grande | gran hombre (great man) | hombre grande (a big man) |
| único | único problema (only problem) | problema único (a unique problem) |
| pobre | pobre hombre (pitiful man) | hombre pobre (a man without money) |
| nuevo | nuevo coche (new to me) | coche nuevo (brand new car) |
Examples
After the Noun
- "Ella tiene una casa grande."
- "Compré una camisa azul."
- "Vimos una película interesante."
Before the Noun
- "Es un buen estudiante."
- "Visité una antigua ciudad."
- "Ella es mi mejor amiga."
Placement with Meaning Change
- "Viejo amigo"
- "Amigo viejo"
- "Pobre hombre"
- "Hombre pobre"
Understanding the placement of adjectives in Spanish is crucial for conveying the right meaning and nuance. By learning these patterns, you can enhance your communication and express more precisely what you intend to say.