What is the part of speech of the underlined word in the sentence "Sam’s dog is black with white spots"?
The underlined word 'white' in the sentence is used to describe the spots on Sam's dog. Therefore, 'white' is an adjective.
Understanding Adjectives
Adjectives are words that are used to describe or modify nouns or pronouns in a sentence. They provide information about the size, shape, color, age, and many other qualities of the noun they are describing.
In the sentence "Sam’s dog is black with white spots", the word 'white' is describing the spots on Sam's dog. It provides additional information about the color of the spots, making it an adjective in this context.
Usage of Adjectives
Adjectives play a crucial role in adding detail and depth to our language. They allow us to create vivid images in the minds of the readers or listeners by providing specific characteristics to the nouns in our sentences.
In the sentence mentioned earlier, 'white' helps paint a clear picture of Sam's dog having spots that are a combination of black and white. This description enhances the overall understanding of the sentence.
Identifying Adjectives
One way to identify adjectives in a sentence is to look for words that answer the questions "What kind?", "Which one?", "How many?", or "How much?" when placed before a noun. Adjectives typically come before the noun they are describing.
In the sentence above, 'white' answers the question "What kind of spots?" in relation to Sam's dog, making it an adjective.
Conclusion
Adjectives play a crucial role in English grammar by enhancing the description of nouns in sentences. They provide vital details that help readers and listeners visualize the characteristics of the nouns being described. In the sentence "Sam’s dog is black with white spots", the word 'white' functions as an adjective by describing the color of the spots on Sam's dog.