Adjectives describe or modify the noun they are attached to. In English, the adjective order is opinion, size, age or shape, colour, origin, material, and purpose. Additionally, in English, adjectives appear before the noun. However, in many languages—including ASL—the adjective will appear after the noun.

The shift from adjective-noun to noun-adjective order can be difficult for many beginning ASL students. Although it is common to see adjective-noun format in ASL, beginning students should practice noun-adjective. Practicing this format will support your growth and allow your signing to be clear in the future. Students who stick with adjective-noun format tend to grow into students who occasionally make statements that are confusing because of their adjective placement.