Definition

A word or phrase that is used to give more emphasis or strength to another word, often making it more intense or powerful.

Example

In the sentence 'She is very happy', the word 'very' acts as an intensifier.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of an intensifier in grammar?

Yeah, I think it’s a word that adds emphasis, right?

Exactly! It makes the meaning stronger in a sentence.

I've seen examples like 'very' or 'really.' They work well!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Intensifier → It is formed from "intens-" (from Latin "intensus", meaning stretched or strained) and "-ifier" (from Latin "-ificare", meaning to make or to do). The word "intensifier" refers to something that makes a quality stronger or more intense.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'stretches' ('intens-') a quality to make it stronger — that's what an intensifier does.

Visually Confused Words