A Trip to Darjeeling.

Posted on July 31, 2019 by Sumita Tah

Darjeeling, (meaning the land of thunderbolts) is a hill station in the foothills of the lower Himalayas. Darjeeling is immersed in a beauty that has mesmerised visitors for time immemorial. Ruling over India, the British had made Darjeeling the summer capital for its pristine beauty and snow clad mountains.

We decided to visit Darjeeling during February as the winter beauty of Darjeeling leaves one breathless. The best time to visit this hill station in West Bengal, (India) is Feb-Mar and Sep-Nov. It is best to avoid visiting during June-July as the area is prone to landslides during the monsoon.

We took the Darjeeling mail 10:05pm from Howrah station near Kolkata and reached New Jalpaiguri station(NJP) at 8:00 am after an overnight journey of 570kms. From NJP there are two options to reach Darjeeling – 1) The toy train, and 2) By road.

THE TOY TRAIN

The toy train was established in 1881, and is enlisted as one of UNESCO World Heritage sites. A ride in the toy train is one of the unforgettable experiences of one’s life. The panoramic view throughout the ride of the breathtaking hillsides will leave everlasting pictures in the mind. One can visit the Ghoom monastery or enjoy local delicacies in Kurseong while sightseeing. The Batasia loop is a famous railway loop that offers an amazing view of the mountains. It goes around an open air Gorkha memorial, with a beautiful garden.

As we were not able to purchase tickets for the toy train we booked a SUV for reaching Darjeeling. There are also buses, shared jeep or vans available from NJP. It took us 2 h 55 min to reach Darjeeling via Matigara- Kurseong Rd, one can also go through NH10 which takes 3 h 12 )min.

If you wish to travel by toy train (diesel engine), it leaves NJP at 9:00am and takes about 7 hours to reach Darjeeling. From Darjeeling to Kurseong steam Engine toy trains are available.

On reaching Darjeeling we stayed at The Darjeeling Tourist lodge which offers a stunning view of Kanchenjunga. There are heritage hotels like the Windamere, Cedar inn, Ramada, Hermitage which are upscale hotels and offer a good view of the Kanchenjunga. There is also numerous mid range and budget hotels and home stays available. After enjoying a hot lunch and taking some rest, we decided to take a walk around the Mall.

The Mall

The mall road is a mountain walkway with serene mountain scenery where one may enjoy a leisurely morning or evening walk. The Darjeeling mall is a loop of about a kilometre, starting from Chowrasta going around the Observatory hill and returning to the mall itself. The mall road is shaded with trees with rhododendrons scattered along the slopes adding to its beauty. Walking along we saw a huge white building with a golden dome. It is the Bhanu bhavan or the Ranga Manch. It is an auditorium which is used for public functions. Opposite to the Ranga manch is St. Andrews Church dating back to the British era (1843). The Raj Bhavan which is the summer residence of the governor of West Bengal is also a landmark along the mall road. There are three viewing areas on the mall road for viewing the beauty of Kanchenjunga. We took a stroll along the road while children enjoyed pony rides. Coming back to the Chowrasta we enjoyed piping hot tea, local alu bhurji and roasted peanuts.

Glenary’s

The walk along the Mall and shopping at the Chowrasta had made us hungry so we decided on having dinner at the Glenarys. The Glenary’s is owned by the Edwards family in Darjeeling and is over 100years old. It has a wonderful Bakery and café and a restaurant. The food is excellent and view exquisite.

The Tiger Hill.

A view of the majestic Kanchenjungha from Tiger hill.

After a nights rest we woke up in the dark for viewing sunrise from the Tiger hill. We had booked an SUV for the entire day, which took us to the Tiger Hill which is about 12 kms from main Darjeeling. We trekked up a little to find that a lot of tourists had already arrived before us. In the biting chilly morning we enjoyed steaming Darjeeling brew sold by ladies carrying huge flasks. We were lucky to have a clear weather, we watched mesmerised as the sun spread its golden rays in various hues across the majestic Kanchenjunga.

The Ghoom monastery

Our next stop was the Ghoom monastery, built in 1850. The clay statue of Buddha was made with clay brought form Tibet. The two huge lamps are kept burning throughout the year. The intricate work and paintings are worth watching. There is a serene spiritual ambience, which leaves a lasting impression in the mind.

The Dali Monastery

After visiting the Batasia loop and enjoying the serene view, we went to the Dali Monastery. The Dali monastery was built in 1971, and is the residence of the supreme head of the Kargypa sect of Buddhists. The structure and paintings of this monastery are awesome. The prayer room has five cylindrical golden drums, which elderly monks were rotating and offering prayers. The chants create a spiritual atmosphere in which one can immerse oneself.

The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park.

The 67.56 acre zoo was made in 1958 at a height of 7,000 feet. The zoo is a breeding centre for endangered species like Siberian tiger, Himalayan wolf, snow leopard, red panda. There are about 60 species of orchids and some oak trees are more than 100 years old. All the animals and birds looked bright and healthy in the natural surroundings. The huge trees and mists floating around created a mystical atmosphere.

Everest Museum.

After looking around the zoo we went to the Everest museum situated within the complex of The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. The museum displays a chronological history of the attempts on Mt. Everest. The display starts from 1852 when Radhanath Sikdar measured Mt. Everest for the first time. It was named after Sir George Everest the then survey General of India. The personal gears and equipments show how difficult it was for early climbers to mount the Everest. The equipments of Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary, the first Everest conquerors are also on display.

Bengal Natural History Museum.

The Bengal Natural History Museum showcases animal and bird life in the Darjeeling hills. The stuffed animals, fishes and birds looked so fresh that they seemed to be artificial.

Tenzing Rock.

Our next stop was The Tenzing rock which is a fun place for amateur climbers. A pair of natural rocks is used for practising climbing. People are assisted as they climb up and down the rock. It is a great place to boost up your skills as a rock climber. Although initially it seemed impossible we actually managed the daunting task with some help.

Happy Valley Tea Estate.

This emerald green tea garden gave us the feel of life in the tea gardens. It is spread over 177 hectares and is situated 3 kms north of Darjeeling. The estate produces hand rolled tea which is as exquisite as it is expensive. We bought some tea for ourselves as well as gifts for friends and family.

The Darjeeling Ropeway.

It is another popular tourist Destination plying from ‘North Point’ in Darjeeling town and ‘Singla’ on the banks of the Ramman river. The journey was exciting and offered us beautiful views of the valleys and hills in Darjeeling.

The Peace Pagoda.

Our last stop was the Darjeeling Peace Pagoda which is designed to help people around the world to unite for World Peace. It houses the four avatars of Buddha. It is situated in the slopes of Jalapahar hills and offers a peaceful and spiritual surrounding; which the hills, trees and mountain mists enhance. The driver dropped us at the mall where we enjoyed mouth watering, piping hot momos which are hard to resist. After a stroll and a lot of shopping of woollen garments, we wound up for the day.

The stay in Darjeeling was made even more appetising with the local delicacies like steaming hot momo and Tibetian Thupka. These are must haves in Darjeeling along with Darjeeling tea which is low in calorie and high in caffeine giving you energy to climb the slopes. As we drove down to the plains, the mist covered mountains seemed to beckon us for another visit.

Monsoon

Posted on July 28, 2019 by Sumita Tah

The grey sky turn the trees emerald green.

The sky is grey and expectant;
Soon it will start raining again.
Looking through the window,
I wait for the showers to begin;
There’s a dull ache in the heart,
For all that could have been.

Every cloud has a silver lining ,
We all know the proverb.
Sometimes I want to add,
Every day is followed by night;
And so the circle continues,
Irrespective of the inhabitants,
Whose lives revolved around selves.

The drizzle has gathered momentum,
It is raining like there is no tomorrow.
Every drop hurling down hard;
Seems to be bursting out loud,
Bringing out grief, anger, frustration;
That had gathered over time.

The shower changes to a soft drizzle,
The pent up emotions spent.
The grey sky gives way to sunshine,
Everything is once more bright.
The sky breaks into laughter,
A child oblivious of all suffering.

ADVERBS

Posted on July 25, 2019July 27, 2019 by Sumita Tah

An adverb is a word which modifies a verb, an adjective or another adverb.

We may say that it adds to the meaning of a verb, adjective or an adverb.

1)Philip runs quickly.

In this sentence the adverb quickly modifies the verb runs. It tells us about the manner in which Philip runs.

2) This is a very sweet apple. In this sentence the adverb very modifies the adjective sweet. It tells us to what degree the apple is sweet.

3) Sharah sings quite sweetly. In this sentence the adverb quite modifies the adverb sweetly. It tells us how far or to what extent she sings sweetly.

Types of adverb:

i) Adverbs of Manner

ii) Adverbs of Time

iii) Adverbs of Place

iv) Adverbs of Frequency

v) Adverbs of Degree or Quantity

vi) Adverbs of Reason

vii) Adverbs of Affirmation or Negation

viii) Adverbs of Certainty

ix) Relative adverbs

x) Interrogative adverbs

xii) Focusing Adverbs

1) ADVERBS OF MANNER

Adverb of Manner (how-adverbs) tells us how or in what manner an action is done.

The soldiers fought bravely.

He did it manually.

The story is well written.

She was agreeably disappointed.

Thus he succeeded.

[This class includes nearly all those Adverbs which are derived from Adjectives and end in –ly.]

2) ADVERBS OF PLACE

Adverb of place (where adverbs) show where or at what place the action is done.

The meeting was held here.

Go there.

The doctor is out.

Is Mr John within?

Walk backward.

Stop here.

They went upstairs.

3) ADVERBS OF TIME

Adverb of time (when-adverb) tells us when or at what time an action is done.

It rained yesterday.

The guests will arrive soon.

The boy arrived late in class.

Vinni comes here daily.

Wasted time never returns.

Mr. Smith formerly lived here.

4) ADVERBS OF FREQUENCY

An adverb of frequency (How often- adverb) tells us how often or how frequently an action is done.

He visits us daily.

She spoke to me twice.

They often play cricket.

He seldom comes here.

She always cooks dinner.

I have not seen him once.

She frequently comes late.

The messenger came again.

5) ADVERBS OF DEGREE OR QUANTITY

These adverbs (how much or to what degree- adverbs) tells us to what extent an action is done.

I fully agree with you.

He was too careless.

The glass is almost full.

They treated him most cruelly.

He is good enough for my purpose.

She was altogether mistaken.

Things are no better now.

She sings pretty well.

I am rather busy.

You are quite wrong.

I am so glad.

We are fully prepared.

You are partly correct.

6) ADVERBS OF REASON

Adverb of reason (why-adverb) tells us why an action has taken place.

She wanted to buy a pen therefore she went out.

He is sick hence unable to go to school.

The work was not done in time consequently the project failed.

7) ADVERBS OF AFFIRMATION OR NEGATION

These adverbs affirm or negate an action.(yes, no, surely, perhaps)

You are surely mistaken.

He has certainly done it.

I do not know him.

He is not busy.

I have not done it.

‘Yes’ and ‘No’ are generally classified as adverbs. They are in fact substitutes for a whole sentence, by a process where words once used are understood as repeated. This process is called ellipsis.

Q: Have you reached there?

A: Yes.( I have reached.)

Q: Are you feeling sick?

A: No. (I am not feeling sick.)

8) ADVERBS OF CERTAINTY

Adverb of certainty (how sure-adverbs) tells us how sure we are of something.

It will probably rain tomorrow.

Perhaps the train is late.

She is definitely late.

9) RELATIVE ADVERBS

Relative adverbs like relative pronouns introduce adjective clause.

Tell them the reason why you lied.

I know the street where she lives.

Do you know when the chief guest will arrive?

10) INTERROGATIVE ADVERBS

An interrogative adverb not only modifies some words but begins a question.

When will he come? (Time)

How many people are there? (number)

How far must we travel? (degree)

Why was he upset? (reason)

Where is the market? (place)

11) FOCUSING ADVERBS

These adverbs ‘point to’ one part of a clause.

We are only going for a day.

He has even gone to the President.

The crowd consisted of mainly students.

According to their usage adverbs are divided in to three classes.

1)Simple adverbs. – You are quite right.

2) Interrogative adverbs – Why are you late?

3) Relative adverbs –I remember the house where I was born.

Formation of adverbs:

From the viewpoint of formation . Adverbs may be divided into four categories.

1) Simple formation- fast, very, too

2) Derivative ( formed by adding ‘ly’ suffix.) – slowly, usually, gracefully

3) Compound ( formed by joining two words) – somewhere -> some + where, anywhere -> any+where

4) Composite (adverbials or phrases working as adverbs)- at last, on foot, at least.

Forms of adverbs

Some words are used both as adverbs and adjectives in the same form.

ADJECTIVES ADVERBS

She came by the back entrance. She came back.

She faced little problem while trekking. She is little known outside U.S.

It was a hard sum. He works hard to earn money.

She is the best teacher. She behaves best in the class.

I am an early riser. He rises early.

He is the only child. You can only guess.

Comparison of adverbs

Some adverbs like adjectives have three degrees of comparison.

Positive Comparative Superlative

Fast Faster Fastest Long longer longest hard harder hardest Soon sooner soonest Swiftly moreswiftly mostswiftly Skillfully more skillfully most skillfully Early earlier earliest

Position of Adverbs

i) Adverbs of Manner are usually placed after the verb or object if there is one:

He is walking slowly

The boy is running fast.

She writes letters well.

He does his work carefully.

ii) Adverb phrases of place and time are also placed after the verb or object if any.

She will go there.

He searched everywhere.

She met me yesterday.

They are going to Paris next month.

iii) In case of two or more adverbs. The normal order is – Adverb of manner; Adverb of place;

Adverb of time.

We should go there tomorrow evening.

She danced beautifully at the function last evening.

iv) Adverbs of frequency are normally put between the subject and the verb.

He never goes to the zoo.

I quite agree with you.

She has never seen a lion.

We usually go to sleep by nine.

v) The verb enough is placed before the word it modifies.

He was rash enough to drive fast.

She sang loud enough to be heard by all.

vi) The word only is usually placed after the word it modifies.

I worked only four hours.

She did only two sums.

However in spoken English only is placed before the word it modifies.

She only worked two sums.

I only slept for three hours.

Questions That Arise

Posted on July 22, 2019July 22, 2019 by Sumita Tah

Why do the corrupt pray so hard?
Why do they thrive if they are bad?
Why do the good, even if they pray,
Hardly ever find their way ?
Why are the kind thought to be weak?
Why does the world hurt the meek?
Why do the cunning always win?
In spite of being drowned in sin?

The gentle people of this world;
Must speak up for rights and be bold,
Take strong stands and fight for right ;
Fight for justice, with all their might.
Till faith and peace, regains the throne
And belief in goodness is reborn.

Sumita Tah

Saving the Shade

Posted on July 19, 2019 by Sumita Tah

“I will cut the mango tree, let me see who dares to stop me.” said Sarkar fuming with rage. “Never! It’s our mango tree, it belongs to the village,” retorted Vipin shaking his fingers at Binoy. The conflict had been going on for quite some time. It all started when Binoy Sarkar’s father died leaving 7 acres of land to be divided between two brothers. Sujoy, the elder brother was a good ten years older than him. He had requested Binoy to give him 3 acres of land which was near the village. Binoy was greatly satisfied to get the larger amount of land, far away from the village, with a clump of trees at the centre.
Binoy wanted to cut down the clump of trees which occupied about ½ an acre of land, and increase his cultivable land. It would ensure more crops and a greater income. The problem was the clump of trees was the only place where farmers could rest in shade and have their lunch. It was an indispensable place for the entire village. The huge mango tree that stood along with the other jamun and guava trees had been providing farmers with its delicious mangoes for several generations. The ripe mangoes would spread its aroma through the summer, creating a happy mood for all. The cool shade under the green canopy was a solace to the tired souls after grinding work under the merciless sun.
The very idea of endless fields without a trace of shade created a dread in the hearts of the village farmers. Each of them spoke to Binoy, requesting him to leave the cluster of trees alone, so that villagers could continue to enjoy the cool comfort of the shade during the months that they cultivated. But Binoy was adamant, he refused to listen to any kind of advice. His mind was completely engrossed with the fanciful thoughts of various methods in which he could spend the money, which he would get after selling the wood.

The famers are our providers, they deserve a lot of respect.

The villagers decided to go to the village council to solve the problem. The village head Parashuram Singh was old and wise. He was supposed to be above ninety, but looked like a sixty year old. Some of the village elders presumed that he could be well over 100, as none of them remembered him as a boy. He had been solving problems of the villagers as long as they could remember. So, the farmers who had their fields around the area shaded by the trees, took their friends and families along with them, for making an appeal against Binoy, to stop him from cutting the trees. ‘Dada ji,’ said Malay, ‘You have seen the clump of trees at the centre of the fields since your birth. Most of us were not even born at that time. The trees have been a part of the villager’s lives for generations. None of our ancestors had this ridiculous idea of chopping off the fruit bearing trees for profit.

Now Binoy is making plans to sell the trees and use the land for cultivation.’ Binoy, who was sitting cross legged in front of the crowd, was defensive, ‘I don’t see anything wrong in it. I have inherited the land and have full rights to do as I like with it.’

“But we have our food and take rest there in between our work. If the shade is destroyed, it would mean going back to our homes for lunch, it would be an unnessary waste of time and money,” Malay’s brother Nilay argued.

‘Ah! I do have a solution to the problem ,” grinned Binoy, pointing his finger to the villagers, “You all can pool in slots of land, and grow your fruit trees in it. That way you would have as much shade and fruit as you want.” He smirked at the look of the villagers, who appeared stupefied.

Headman Parashuram looked at him calmly, then he looked at the villagers and said, “ Binoy has a point here, just because you have been using the shady patch for years; doesn’t mean that you have the right to use it forever, you all have your own land and can plant your own shady patch if you want to enjoy the fruits and shade.”

Binoy looked pleased with the judgement and displayed a broad grin. He had achieved his aim. Now no one could stop him from increasing his land and his yield.

The villagers looked aghast. They had not expected their village head to give such a ruling, it was totally against the head man’s nature to give a wrong judgement. Parasuram put up his hand for silence, as the villagers started to murmur amongst themselves. He then continued slowly in a subdued voice, “However till the trees grow up , strong and big, Binoy will not cut his clump of trees. He will also make personal arrangements for irrigating his own fields, as he is not a believer of community services. He will henceforth not have access to the water from any pond or well that does not belong to him,” he concluded.

Society depends on contribution of every individual.

Binoy looked stunned at the head man’s ruling. He knew from the sternness in the headman’s voice, that he and his family would soon be ostracized, if he went against the head man’s words. He realised that each one of them was dependent on the other for leading a comfortable life. Personal greed on the part of any one of them would ruin the structure of the society.

The villagers felt happy with the headman’s ruling. He was indeed a wise old man who made them realise that they must live unitedly and work for the greater good of the people.

“Binoy, you may cut the clump of trees that you have inherited but did not plant. But you must also be ready to take in the pains that will follow the gains which you will reap.” said the head man’s in a softer tone.

“Dada ji, It was blind greed that made me think of only my profits , without considering the effects it would have on others. Now, I understand that as others are dependent on me for the shade, so am I dependent on them for many things. I will not cut the trees and everyone is welcome to enjoy the fruits and the shade as they have always enjoyed.” said Binoy apologetically.

The villagers clapped when Binoy finished his speech. Malay and Nilay, who were his childhood friends gave him a hug and they all touched Parashuram’s feet for his blessings. The headman smiled and blessed them. “Greed is the root of all evil” he said, “never let greed overcome your sense of right and wrong. No matter how much you have, you will always want more. There is no end to one’s wants, so keep your feet on the ground and never do things that may harm others.” So saying he got up from his charpoy, and the gathering dispersed. Contentment once again reigned in the hearts of the villagers, and peaceful atmosphere returned.

Trees keep the environment cool. They ask for nothing, except for the right to live. Is it too much to give?

Happiness and contenment comes from giving. Let us learn from the tree which provides shade for free.

Save Water, Save Life.

Posted on July 15, 2019July 15, 2019 by Sumita Tah

Thousands lived without love, but none without water.

Water woes
My throat was parched,
My lips were dry,
Water! Water!
Was my cry.
I squeezed my eyes,
Far to see.
To find some water,
Or find a tree.
Not a drop was there,
Nor a plant, nor tree.
For rivers and forests,
Were history.

Water is more precious than mutual funds or shares. SAVE IT.

Water is life. Without water life is not possible. Every living being needs water for survival. We all know that three fourths of the world is covered by water. Of this 97% is found in oceans and salt lakes as saline water , and only 3% of it is sweet water. Most of this sweet water, about 2%, exists in the form of glaciers at the poles ,as perma-frosts, ice-caps, water vapour in the atmosphere as well as soil moisture. That leaves 1% of the earth’s water resources fit for consumption. This water is found on land in forms of rivers, lakes, ponds , wells and as underground water in aquifers.
This 1% sweet water is the source of life not only for humans, but for all forms of life that exists on land. Humans have been using this water for ages for cooking, cleaning, washing, bathing as well as for agricultural and industrial use. As long as machines weren’t invented for pumping out water wastage of water was limited. As people had to labour hard to draw water from wells and ponds, they used water judiciously.

Pumped out water requires no labour, hence wasted.

With the invention of advanced pumps and drilling machines. Pumping out water has become an easy task. With the press of a button or a switch, water is readily available for use . In cities and towns, the corporations provide water through out the year, so people do not think twice before using, more than the required amount of water. Washing our hands in running water wastes 27 litres of water which can be done with 1 litre water using a mug. If we turn off the tap while soaping our body we save 50 litres of water. Using a bathtub wastes 110 litres of water. Washing cars uses 150 litres of water , which can be minimised to 50 litres using bucket and mug.

Precious water in poisonous plastic is a deadly menace.
Stop polluting water bodies.

Advancement should be actual, not superficial. The water that we are wasting today belongs to the next generation. Depletion of underground water is a harsh reality , that we are ignoring for the present. Most waterbodies are polluted to such an extent that the water is no longer fit for consumption. This includes seas and oceans, where marine animals and creatures are facing extinction due to chemical and plastic pollution.

Rapidly melting mountain glaciers are a threat to the globe.

The glaciers in the mountains, which are the prime source of water for permanent rivers are also melting fast due to global warming. This means that these rivers would also dry up within a decade or two. It would mean that there would be no source of water, either over the ground or underground.
Trees would perish due to lack of water and agriculture would be impossible. The coming generations would bear the burnt of the deeds of the present generation. Through exploitation of nature, we are paving the way towards a dreadful future for the generations to come.
The children are aware of the adverse effects of the so called development of the present generation. But, being brought up in comfort, they are not equipped for dealing with the impending adverse situations. It is for us to see that our children and living beings at do not suffer due to our irresponsible and callous lifestyle. They would need sweet water , healthy food and fresh air, and bearable atmospheric temperature to survive.
Water is the tastiest thing that God has made. Let us save water and be thankful for the best things in life…. Which are always free.
Save water , every drop counts.

***Nature has provided everything in abundance, let us take only what is necessary, so that others can also enjoy the bounties of nature, just as we have enjoyed them.***

We need a lot of blue to remain green.

Showers of blessings

Posted on July 9, 2019 by Sumita Tah

The tip-tap of the raindrops ;
Falling on the floor ,
Remind me of the raindrops ,
From the days of yore.

Chubby little hands;
Holding on to the rail,
That ran across the window
Almost like a jail.

The street below the window;
Suddenly begins to fill,
As rain gush down in showers,
Drowning hearts with thrill.

What fun it was to make ;
The dreamy paper boats,
And sail them in the torrent ,
Hoping they would float.

The rain came down in a white sheet;
As far as eyes could see,
Covering familiar surroundings,
In an unknown mystery.

Thunder and lighting outside;
Inside were dripping sounds,
As water fell here and there,
Drop by drop on ground.

Piping hot pakoras;
Made by mommy dear,
With spicy sauce and coffee,
Made vision of heaven clear.

Watching the raindrops move by;
One after the other in clothesline,
Some moving to the very end,
Some falling before their time.

But every drop did twinkle;
Catching a ray of light,
Every drop had its shine,
Before the final flight.

Pitter- patter of raindrops;
Falling on the window sill,
That made me happy as a child,
Fills me with happiness still.

The purging effects of rain on every element of the Earth

                                Sumita Tah

ADJECTIVES

Posted on July 5, 2019July 5, 2019 by Sumita Tah

Definition: An adjective is a word which qualifies a noun and adds something to its meaning by acting as a pre modifier or post modifier. (Adjective means added to.)

E.g. It is a red book.

The book is red.

Types of adjectives:

1) Adjectives of Quality: shows the kind or quality of a person or thing. E.g. red, big, heavy, tall.

2) Adjectives of Quantity: shows how much of a thing is meant. some, much, enough, all.

3) Adjectives of Number: shows how many persons or things are meant. eight, many, all, first.

a) Definite numeral adjectives: i)Cardinals: one, two three.

ii) Ordinals: first, second, third.

b) Indefinite numeral adjectives: E.g. some, all, few, many, several.

c) Distributive numeral adjectives: E.g. each, every, either, neither.

Demonstrative adjectives: E.g. This, That, These, Those, Such.

Interrogative Adjectives: E.g. Which, What, whose (followed by noun)

Possessive Adjectives: E.g. my, your, her, his.

Emphasizing adjectives: E.g. own, very.

ORDER OF ADJECTIVES BEFORE NOUN.

Common Rules:

i)Number is usually placed before other adjectives. E.g. Eleven cricket players. Third highest mountain.

ii) Adjectives denoting size, length, height comes first. E.g. A square glass table. A big blue house.

iii) Adjectives denoting judgments and attitudes comes first. E.g. A wise, handsome, young man.

iv) We place colour, origin, material, purpose before noun. E.g. A white, Chinese, porcelain, Ming vase.

v) Commas are placed between sequences of similar adjectives. Often before the last adjective and is used. E.g. She is a tall, fair, and beautiful girl.

Some adjectives can act as noun and are used with ‘The’

The rich, The poor etc.

Form: Adjectives can be simple or derivative. Derivative adjectives can be formed by adding adjective suffixes like, -ible, -able, -ful, -ic, -ish, ive, -ous, -y etc.

Most common adjectives have three forms in three degrees:

POSITIVE | COMPARATIVE | SUPERLATIVE

Good better best

Bad worse worst

Tall taller tallest

Pretty prettier prettiest

Intelligent more intelligent most intelligent

Common commoner commonest

Silly sillier silliest

Grey greyer greyest

Well known better known/more well known best known/most well known

SENTENCES with DEGREE ADJECTIVES

POSITIVE DEGREE

Positive degree of adjectives simply tells us about the quality of a person or thing.

E.g. Ron is tall.

If his friend Mark is also of the same height and there is no comparison, we may say:

Ron is as tall as Mark. In positive degree we use ‘ as _____ as,’ to show similarity in quality.

COMPARATIVE DEGREE

Comparative degree compares the quality between two things or people.

E.g. Ron is taller than Anna.

Comparative degree denotes a higher degree of quality than the positive. Usually ‘er’, ‘more’ along with ‘than’ is used in comparison.

SUPERLATIVE DEGREE

Hannah is the tallest among the friends; she is also the most beautiful.

Superlative degree denotes the highest of the quality and is used when more than two things are compared. Usually ‘est’,’most’ along with ‘the’ is used in superlative sentences.

This is **the tallest** building in this area.

Grateful — The Travellothoner

Posted on July 2, 2019July 2, 2019 by Sumita Tah

The Travellothoner ( reblogged )

Grateful

May 20, 2019

To the girl who thinks she’s not good enough,

To the girl who thinks she’s not as strong,

To the girl who thinks this hurdle she cannot get past,

To the girl who cannot stand up to point out you’re wrong.

To you pretty ladies I’ve only got one thing to say,

You are wonderful the way you are, in your own beautiful way!

From the lady responsible for my existence today,

To the lady who held my hand when I went astray.

From the one who taught me to read and write,

To the one who loves to kiss me goodnight.

I am surrounded by y’all like a bee around a flower,

Walking around in ignorance, unaware of your power.

Its an open untalked secret this circle of life,

From the days I needed my mother to seeking refuge in my wife.

Y’all run this world and make it a better place,

I hope one day I can repay you for every sacrifice and tear behind that face.

Until then I say “Thank You” and admire the graceful,

For your mere existence I am forever grateful.

The Travellothoner

EVERYBODY’S MOTHER

Posted on June 28, 2019June 28, 2019 by Sumita Tah

Everyone knows that the Earth,
Is suffering in our hands.
Our everyday lives
Adds to her distress.
She suffers silently our callousness.

Like a mother with many children,
She takes care of us.
Fulfills our need
Gives us what we want.
She also wishes to be appreciated.

We all love her , So we say.
Explain and try to make others realise,
How miserable she is
How uncaring we are
Things we should do to make her well.

Then, leaving everything for others,
We continue our journey;
Fulfilling our dreams,
Staying focused on our goals,
Climbing ladders of success.

Mother carefully holds all ladders;
Perched on her bossom, providing
Support to her children,
For the sky is the limit:
Everything is possible if there’s will.

Willingness is everything
When we set our hearts to a thing.
We set priorities
Fulfill our commitments
And achieve the so called impossible.

Then in hopelessness we blame;
People who are ignorant,
Lazy, worthless, greedy:
It is the actions of this uncaring lot
Which will invite the end of mankind .

SumitaTah

English literature and grammar

Gain expertise in English and boost your career.

Author: Sumita Tah