Intensifier

An intensifier is a word or phrase that increases the perceived degree of another word, most often an adjective or an adverb. In linguistics, intensifiers are a type of degree modifier that scales a property or action on a continuum. In English, common intensifiers include very, extremely, and completely (strong intensifiers); quite, fairly, and somewhat (milder boosters); and words like too, not, and enough, which can express excess or restraint. Intensifiers are used to convey emphasis, strength of evaluation, or speaker attitude.

Types and examples

Strong intensifiers raise magnitude markedly: very tall, extremely fast, completely silent. Mild intensifiers adjust magnitude more cautiously: fairly good, somewhat tired, moderately difficult. Downtoners reduce intensity: slightly surprised, somewhat cloudy. Some items function as both, depending on context: so tired, enough energy. The meaning of an intensifier can interact with the modified word and with context, influencing informativeness and emotional tone.

Syntax and semantics

Intensifiers typically occur immediately before the word they modify, as in very bright or extremely loud, though the exact position can vary with sentence structure. Their scope is usually the adjacent adjective or adverb, and their interpretation can shift under negation or questioning (not very happy; how incredibly fast?).

Cross-linguistic usage

Across languages, intensification is accomplished through diverse means, including separate vocabulary, affixes, tone, or reduplication. While the exact inventory of intensifiers differs by language, the functional goal—expressing degree, emphasis, or stance—remains common. Intensifiers contribute to subjective evaluation and discourse style, shaping how statements are received.