Appositive – Examples, PDF

We use this in formulating simple sentences, compound sentences, complex sentences and even compound complex sentences. It is an important factor in English grammar. When used correctly, it will help describe or explain what and where the noun is in the sentence. This is appositive.

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 What Is an Appositive?

An appositive in grammar is a word or a phrase that helps describe the word beside it. While it is often seen as a form of adjective, it can also be used as a means to help describe the noun in the sentence. Appositives can come before or after the noun. It can also be used at the beginning of a sentence, at the middle of a sentence or at the end of a sentence. 

Step 1: The Use of Appositives in Sentences

We use appositive phrases when writing sentences. In sentence writing, the use of the appositive comes off as bonus or extra information. The information that is often found with the noun. In the sentence, the appositive gives extra information about the noun in the sentence.

Step 2: Appositives Giving Direct Information

It goes without saying, appositives are helpful when you want some clarity in your sentences. Think of the different types of transitional phrases and sentences. The appositive phrase works just the same way. It gives clearer meaning in order for your readers to understand what is being talked about and who is talked about in the sentence.

Step 3: Appositives and Nonrestrictive Elements

It is common knowledge that we often mistake to place commas or forget to place commas when a noun is followed by an appositive phrase. For nonrestrictive elements, it is understandable to place in commas to divide the two or more phrases that help define the noun in the sentence. An example for that would be “Anne, a student of Stafford University, is the best in her class.” 

Step 4: Appositives in Writing Essays or Speeches

Using appositives in your essay writing and in your speeches help your readers and listeners to determine who you are referring to. As appositives are stated as bonus information, it is through this when you write your essays that help readers swallow the information they are getting from reading.

FAQs

In the English language and grammar, appositives play a vital role in making your sentences sound better. Strictly speaking, when you think of appositives, you think of adjectives as they define the what in the sentence. But using appositives to define the noun in your sentence is also possible. Appositives are found at the beginning of your sentences, the middle, and the end. As long as it sits beside or is adjacent to the noun it is talking about.