In the phrase, "curieuses boîtes", how do you know to place curieuses before the noun.
Thanks
In the phrase, "curieuses boîtes", how do you know to place curieuses before the noun.
Thanks
Hi Tom,
The adjective curieux/curieuse has different meanings depending on its placing.
Before a noun it means odd/strange/intriguing/interesting.
After the noun it means inquisitive and normally refers to people.
Hope this helps!
Hi Tom,
I'm thinking to express "strange boxes" in an abstract sense, rather than a descriptive sense (after the noun).
Hope this helps
Jim
Is there a COMPLETE list of adjectives that have this dual personality? My large Collins has such a list but 'curious' is not in it. Placement of 'curious' before the noun is hinted at in the word's definition, but it is not really clear. This seems to be a deep, dark secret of the language!
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