Why We Say ‘A Big Red Apple’ and Not ‘A Red Big Apple’

Have you ever wondered why we naturally say ‘a big red apple’ instead of ‘a red big apple’? While it may seem instinctive to native speakers, this choice isn’t random—it’s guided by a specific rule of adjective order in English. This rule determines the sequence in which multiple adjectives are placed before a noun, ensuring the sentence sounds smooth and natural.

For most native speakers, this order is second nature, but for learners, it can be a challenging concept. Why? Because the rule is rarely explicitly taught, yet it’s deeply ingrained in the language. Saying adjectives in the wrong order, like ‘a red big apple’ or ‘a round small lovely table,’ doesn’t just sound awkward—it can also confuse the listener.

Mastering this rule is essential for learners who want to improve their fluency and sound more like native speakers. By following this structure, learners can create sentences that feel effortless and clear.

Imagine describing your day: ‘I saw a beautiful small round silver ring in the store.’ This follows the proper order, making your speech more polished. The good news? With practice, understanding and using adjective order can become as natural as speaking English itself.

In this post, we’ll explore the unwritten rule of adjective order, break it down into simple steps, and provide examples to help you master this tricky but rewarding aspect of English.

Adjective Order in English

When multiple adjectives describe a noun, they usually follow this order:
Opinion > Size > Age > Shape > Colour > Origin > Material > Purpose > Noun

Examples of Adjectives in Each Category

Opinion: Lovely, terrible, ugly
Size: Big, small, tiny
Age: Old, new, ancient
Shape: Round, square, oval
Colour: Red, blue, green
Origin: French, American, Asian
Material: Wooden, plastic, metal
Purpose: Cooking (pan), running (shoes)