PRE-DETERMINERS

SUCH, WHAT, RATHER, QUITE

These words are normally placed before the indefinite article.

Such and what are often used to express surprise or other emotions:

Examples

  • What a lovely day!
  • She's such a lovely woman!
  • What an incredible film!
  • He's such a fantastic guitarist!

Rather and quite are 'commenting' words, referring to the degree of a particular quality. They can express disappointment, pleasure, or other emotions, and are used before a/an + adjective + noun:

Examples

  • It's rather a small car. (= I'm a bit disappointed because it's small)
  • It was quite a nice day.(= I was agreeably surprised.)
  • He's had quite a bad accident. (= I'm worried)
  • I've just met rather a nice man. (= I'm pleased)



Earn your MA in TESOL in New York City

research courses at all universities in the UK
Research all course subjects at all UK universities








English grammar software checks your grammar and spelling, and gives feedback as you write!