Adjective Phrases Modifier Preceded Word Required Complete Meaning

An adjective phrase always has an adjective acting as the head. The adjective phrase may also contain words or phrases before or after the head (modifiers and complements):

Adjective (head):

That’s a lovely cake.

These flowers are wonderful.

Adjective preceded by a modifier (underlined):

That soup is pretty cold.

Many of the exercises are fairly difficult.

Adjective + a modifier after it:

The food was tasty enough.

The car is economical for its size.

Adjective + a word or phrase which is required to complete its meaning (a complement):

She was aware of the danger of travelling alone.

Some people weren’t willing to pay extra to book a seat on the plane.

Adjective preceded by a modifier + a word or phrase which is required to complete its meaning (a complement):

We’re not very keen on having an activity holiday.

Are you really interested in rock and roll?

Some adjective phrases have more complex structures.