Adjectives have long suffered from bad press. For many years, English teachers have been fond of telling students that “adjectives are the enemy of nouns, and adverbs are the enemy of everything else.”
While it’s still advisable to heed your English teacher’s advice on most other matters, The Highly Selective Dictionary of Golden Adjectives for the Extraordinarily Literate proves that breaking certain rules can make written and spoken language that much livelier, adding much-needed color, style, and adornment. With this addition to the popular Highly Selective series, the “golden” adjective, at last, gets the star treatment it deserves. From adventitious to zaftig, renowned lexicographer Eugene Ehrlich has collected more than 850 of the most interesting and engaging adjectives in the English language and has provided concise definitions and instructive usage examples. Whether you’re a writer, a speaker, or a word buff, this compendious, trenchant, laudable, and all-around fantabulous volume will help you put panache back into your prose.
Unlock the vibrant potential of the English language with *The Highly Selective Dictionary of Golden Adjectives: For the Extraordinarily Literate*, a captivating hardcover edition by the esteemed lexicographer Eugene Ehrlich. Published by Harper in 2002, this unique reference book isn't your average dictionary or thesaurus; it's a celebration of the adjective, often unfairly maligned, and a treasure trove for anyone seeking to enrich their writing and speech. Tired of bland descriptions? Yearning to add color, style, and panache to your prose? Ehrlichs meticulously curated collection of over 850 "golden" adjectives offers a refreshing alternative to commonplace word choices. This isn't just a list of synonyms; it's a journey through the most interesting and engaging adjectives the English language has to offer, from the unexpected "adventitious" to the wonderfully expressive "zaftig." This book transcends the limitations of traditional dictionaries. Each adjective is presented with a concise, yet insightful definition, illuminating its nuances and shades of meaning. More importantly, Ehrlich provides instructive usage examples that demonstrate how to effectively incorporate these adjectives into your writing and conversation. Learn to wield the power of "trenchant" criticism, appreciate the value of "laudable" achievements, and embrace the sheer joy of a "fantabulous" experience. *The Highly Selective Dictionary of Golden Adjectives* is far more than just a reference tool; its a guide to elevating your communication skills. Whether you are a seasoned writer seeking to refine your craft, a student striving for eloquence, or simply a word enthusiast eager to expand your vocabulary, this book will empower you to express yourself with greater precision, creativity, and flair. Eugene Ehrlich, a renowned lexicographer, brings his expertise and passion for language to every page. He understands the subtle art of word choice and provides readers with the tools they need to master it. This dictionary is perfect for creative writers, academics, public speakers, students studying English as a Second Language (ESL), and anyone who appreciates the beauty and power of words. Its compact, hardcover format makes it a durable and accessible resource for years to come, a perfect addition to any writer's desk or language lover's bookshelf. This book also touches upon themes and vocabulary relevant to medical writing and discussions, making it a valuable resource within the medical field as well. With 272 pages filled with linguistic delights, you'll discover a world of expressive possibilities within its pages. Prepare to be captivated by the golden age of adjectives!