Are paired adjectives bad style?
I have the habit of using paired adjectives in my writing:
- The noise from the engine lulled her with its slow and monotonous rythim ...
- ... the lights on the ceiling filled the room in a soft and warm hue ...
- ... his skin was smooth and thin, like paper ...
The examples may be not 100% accurate since I don't usually write in english, but let's pretend.
Now, sometimes even single adjectives are frowned upon (What's with all the hate on adjectives and adverbs?) - so by logic paired adjectives shouldn't be any better. I remember reading reviews criticizing this very aspect in published novels, but I never understood if there are solid reasons to back up this opinion.
So, are paired adjectives bad style - and if so, why?
Addendum: I'm specifically asking about novels and fiction.
Related question, in technical-writing:
As in so many instances with English, it all depends. The practice is most often abused by overuse. If all of your adje …
5y ago
I would strive for variety in your writing, so the fact that you've already noticed a pattern means you need to be caref …
5y ago
2 answers
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As in so many instances with English, it all depends.
The practice is most often abused by overuse. If all of your adjectives are double, this will be noticeable, and this can be either good or bad.
Most English speakers don't use double adjectives most of the time. If you do use exclusively (or even predominantly) double adjectives, this will ordinarily be seen as peculiar and distracting.
You can use this, however, if a particular character always does it, and it will establish the character as distinct. Probably a bit annoying or weird, but distinct.
TL;DR - You can do it in moderation. Grammatically it's correct, but stylistically it's dangerous, particularly if you do it a lot. Unless you make it work for you. As a writer who does not normally write in English, don't push your luck. Moderation in all things.
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I would strive for variety in your writing, so the fact that you've already noticed a pattern means you need to be careful. Overuse of that single technique - even if you choose the perfect pair every time - will turn you into a one-trick pony.
I like where @wetcircuit was going with their answer, but want to expound just a little more.
Number of words used to describe something:
3 words: Good rhythm. Readers love groups of three.
She was the queen's daughter, no doubt: dark, beautiful, deadly.
2 words: Good at elaborating or showing contrast.
Her bright, fancy dress hid a cold and sinister heart.
1 word: Sometimes gives the most impact.
The grin on her face could only mean one thing. Trouble.
Choose the right number of adjectives for your sentence, recognizing that these are flexible and will depend on context and how recently you used that same technique.
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