Numeral Adjectives: Definition, Forms, Types, Usage, and Examples

When learning English grammar, understanding adjectives is essential. Adjectives are words that describe or give more information about nouns or pronouns. Among the different types of adjectives, numeral adjectives play a crucial role in expressing numbers and the order of nouns. This article will help you learn about numeral adjectives in a simple and clear way, perfect for beginners or children.

What Are Numeral Adjectives?

Numeral adjectives, also known as adjectives of number, are adjectives that indicate the number of nouns or the order in which they appear. They answer questions like “how many?” or “which one?” Numeral adjectives are used to provide precise information about nouns, making your sentences clear and detailed.

Examples of Numeral Adjectives

Here are some common examples of numeral adjectives and how they are used in sentences:

1. One, two, three: I have three apples.

2. First, second, third: She won the first prize.

3. Few, several, many: Many children love playing games.

4. Each, every, all: Each student completed their assignment.

5. Some, no: No books were left on the shelf.

Types of Numeral Adjectives

Numeral adjectives are divided into three main categories

1. Definite Numeral Adjectives

Definite numeral adjectives refer to exact or specific numbers. They include cardinal numbers (like one, two, three) and ordinal numbers (like first, second, third).

• Cardinal Numbers: These show how many.
  Examples: one, two, ten, fifty
  Sentence Examples:
  • I have two dogs.
  • There are ten pencils in the box.

• Ordinal Numbers: These show the position or order of something.
  Examples: first, second, third, last
  Sentence Examples:
  • She came first in the race.
  • The third chapter is the most interesting.

2. Indefinite Numeral Adjectives

Indefinite numeral adjectives do not give an exact number but provide a general idea of quantity. They include words like many, few, some, all, several, no.

Examples:

• • Few people attended the meeting.
  • Many students participated in the competition.
  • Some apples are rotten.

3. Distributive Numeral Adjectives

Distributive numeral adjectives refer to individual items or people within a group, emphasizing each one separately. They include words like each, every, either, neither.

Examples:

• • Each student must bring their own notebook.
  • Every child deserves a good education.
  • Either option is acceptable.

How to Use Numeral Adjectives

1. Placement in Sentences

Numeral adjectives are placed before the noun they describe.

• • Three kittens were playing in the garden.
  • Every person in the room was laughing.

2. Countable vs. Uncountable Nouns

Numeral adjectives are used with countable nouns, while quantitative adjectives are used for uncountable nouns.

• • Numeral: Few chairs were available.
  • Quantitative: There was little water in the tank.

3. With Plural or Singular Nouns

• • Definite and Indefinite Numeral Adjectives are often followed by plural nouns.
    Example: Many books, few ideas.
  • Distributive Numeral Adjectives are followed by singular nouns and singular verbs.
    Example: Each child is responsible for their homework.

4. With Comparative Forms

Numeral adjectives can be used in comparative and superlative forms:

• • More people came to the party than expected.
  • This is the fewest students we’ve had in class.

Examples of Numeral Adjectives in Sentences

1. Definite Numeral Adjectives:

• • I read three books last week.
  • She is the second child in her family.

2. Indefinite Numeral Adjectives:

• • Several flowers bloomed in the garden.
  • Few people know the secret.

3. Distributive Numeral Adjectives:

• • Each player received a medal.
  • Either option works fine.

Common Confusions: Numeral vs. Quantitative Adjectives

It’s important to differentiate between numeral adjectives and quantitative adjectives. Here’s how they differ:

Practice Questions

Identify the numeral adjectives in the following sentences:

1. She bought five apples and one watermelon.

2. Every student completed the test on time.

3. There are several options to choose from.

4. The third chapter is my favorite.

5. Either path will lead you to the destination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is a numeral adjective?
A numeral adjective describes the number or order of nouns, answering questions like how many? or which one?

Q2: What are the types of numeral adjectives?
The three types of numeral adjectives are:

• • Definite Numeral Adjectives (e.g., one, first)
  • Indefinite Numeral Adjectives (e.g., some, many)
  • Distributive Numeral Adjectives (e.g., each, every)

Q3: Can numeral adjectives be used with uncountable nouns?
No, numeral adjectives are typically used with countable nouns. For uncountable nouns, use quantitative adjectives.