Definition

This word describes something that is related to the grammatical construction where two elements are placed side by side, with one element serving to define or modify the other.

Example

In the phrase 'my brother, the doctor', 'the doctor' is in appositional relation to 'my brother'.

Conversation

I was reading about grammar rules yesterday.

Oh really? What did you learn?

I found out that appositional phrases can clarify subjects in sentences.

That’s interesting! I’ll have to pay more attention to those.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Appositional → It is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "positio" (from "ponere", meaning to place). The word describes a grammatical construction where a noun is placed next to another noun to explain or identify it further.

Memory Tip

Think of placing something 'next to' ('ad-') to clarify or explain it — that's what appositional means.

Visually Confused Words