Adjectives
The function of an adjective is to describe a noun.
- A reliable car.
- An old rabbit.
- The pretty flower.
Adverbs
The main function of an adverb is to show how, where or when a verb happens, such as: quickly, carefully and happily. Most adverbs end in -ly but some don't such as: fast, well, often and now.
- The birds were singing very loudly.
- The venue was extremely busy.
- They treated her well.
Nouns
The function of a noun is to name a person, place or thing.
There are four types of noun.
- Common nouns, such as: animal, book, shop
- Proper nouns, which are names and begin with a capital letter, such as: Emily, London, Tuesday.
- Abstract nouns, which are things we can't see or touch, such as: mistake, friendship, concentration.
- Collective nouns, which are the names of groups, such as: team, crowd, committee.
Pronouns
Personal pronouns take the place of nouns to make sentences run more smoothly.
- Ruth and I gave the file back to him.
- We often go on holiday with them.
- She said the mug belonged to you.
Verbs
The function of a verb is to show doing, having or being. Most verbs have tenses to show when they take place.
- Present tense: it is raining.
- Past tense: it rained yesterday.
- Future tense: it will rain later.
Verbs: active and passive
With an active verb, the 'doer' comes before the verb.
- We can't consider your application until we receive the form.
With a passive verb, the 'doer' comes after the verb, or it does not appear at all.
- Your application can't be considered by us until the form is received.
The CIPD house style encourages you to use active verbs as they make writing clearer and more personal.