Intensifiers are words or phrases used to give emphasis or additional force to the meaning of another word, typically an adjective or adverb. They are essential tools in English for expressing strong feelings, opinions, or degrees of certainty - but used sparingly in formal, more academic texts. This article will explore the form, meaning, and use of intensifiers, providing a comprehensive understanding of how to use them effectively.

Form

Intensifiers can take various forms, including single words and phrases. Here are some common intensifiers:

Single-Word Intensifiers:

• Very: "She is very happy."
• Really: "He is really excited."
• Extremely: "The movie was extremely interesting."
• So: "I am so tired."
• Too: "This coffee is too hot."

Phrasal Intensifiers:

• A bit: "She is a bit nervous."
• A little: "He is a little upset."
• Quite: "The book is quite good."
• Rather: "The weather is rather cold."
• Absolutely: "The performance was absolutely amazing."

Meaning

Intensifiers modify adjectives or adverbs to increase or decrease their intensity. They can express a range of meanings, from slight to extreme emphasis. Here are some key points about their meaning:

1. Increasing Intensity: Intensifiers like "very," "really," and "extremely" increase the intensity of the adjective or adverb they modify.
   • Example: "She is very happy." (Happiness is increased.)
2. Decreasing Intensity: Some intensifiers, such as "a bit" and "a little," decrease the intensity, making the adjective or adverb less strong.
   • Example: "He is a bit tired." (Tiredness is decreased.)
3. Expressing Extremes: Intensifiers like "absolutely," "completely," and "totally" express extreme degrees of the quality.
   • Example: "The food was absolutely delicious." (Deliciousness is at an extreme level.)