In order to know what a short adjective is, you have to count the number of syllables in an adjective or adverb. Remember that a syllable is a single unit of written or spoken word and it is made up of one or more letters with a vowel sound at its core.
Say aloud the following adjectives and adverbs:
How many syllables are there?
Adjective or adverb | Syllables |
Big | Only one |
Black | Only one |
Clean | Only one |
Cold | Only one |
Fast | Only one |
Full | Only one |
Busy | Two |
Dirty | Two |
Early | Two |
Easy | Two |
Happy | Two |
Narrow | Two |
Say aloud the following long adjectives:
How many syllables?
Adjective or adverb | Syllables |
Interesting | 4 syllables |
Dangerous | 3 syllables |
Difficult | 3 syllables |
Beautiful | 3 syllables |
Important | 3 syllables |
Expensive | 3 syllables |
Exciting | 3 syllables |
Historical | 4 syllables |
Relaxing | 3 syllables |