adjective noun order

[pogo]

Hi guys,

I know usually the adjective comes after the noun but under what circumstances does it go in front? Is it just with certain words like "gran".

thanks for any help.

[Elaina]

Hola Pogo!

Depending on the type of adjective and the context, it may occur either before or after the noun it modifies. Most frequently, adjectives follow the noun unless they are limiting adjectives or used metaphorically or modify a noun which is one-unique.

for example: El hombre alto es mi hermano. (hombre is the noun and alto is the adjective that is decribing the noun).... it is giving the noun characteristic. (descriptive adjective)

Limiting adjectives indicate quantity and are placed (usually) in front

for example: Muchas personas se van de vacaciones en diciembre.

I hope this helps a little bit...

Elaina

[pogo]

thanks for the reply, if it's mainly limiting adjectives how come words like buen and bueno go first?

[sosia]

bueno can go both
Juan es un buen hombre.
Juan es un hombre bueno.
Es una buena oferta
Es una oferta buena buena.

Bueno it's so common that can be used in a lot of ways. Usually go first.
Saludos

[pogo]

gracias Sosia, ahora entiendo.

[hombre-chistoso-2006]

Also:

Hombre grande = big (fat) man
gran hombre = great (important) man