Place of "magnifique"

emre can c.A2Kwiziq community member

Place of "magnifique"

Why does the place of "magnifique" varies in the sentences below though it's neither an adjective that qualifies a proper noun nor a numerical adjective?

J'ai vu des endroits magnifiques.

Il a mangé de magnifiques gâteaux.

Asked 3 years ago
Maarten K.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor Correct answer

I think Emre means magnifique doesn’t meet the criteria in the lesson for an adjective that goes before a noun, rather than it isn’t an adjective at all. Magnifique is one of the moveable adjectives, and Larousse has examples placing it before and after nouns.

From the 1st reference below it seems to be one of the uncommon French adjectives that can go before or after nouns, without changing its meaning.

https://rapidefrench.com/grammar/5/

https://www.larousse.fr/dictionnaires/francais/magnifique/48614

Jim J.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor

Hi, Emre can,

I don't understand why you state that "magnifique" is not an adjective?

It is indeed an adjective and the meaning changes when it is placed before or after the noun.

The lesson has used one translation of magnifique, and others could be "splendid, wonderful, admirable, amazing" etc. Depending upon the context, there are several interpretations when placed before or after the noun.

Hope this helps.

Jim

Place of "magnifique"

Why does the place of "magnifique" varies in the sentences below though it's neither an adjective that qualifies a proper noun nor a numerical adjective?

J'ai vu des endroits magnifiques.

Il a mangé de magnifiques gâteaux.

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