intensifier

USAGE SUMMARY

'intensifier' is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is used to refer to a word or phrase that adds emphasis or strength to another word or phrase in a sentence. It is often used in grammar and linguistics discussions. Example sentence: The use of the word 'absolutely' in this context serves as an intensifier, conveying a stronger sense of agreement than just 'yes' or 'definitely'.

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

In the 1950s an electronic method was devised to intensify the image, the so-called image intensifier, which made possible the overcoming of the technical difficulties, and cineradiography became routine.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This, too, works as a kind of emotional intensifier of the whole, so that each poem builds and builds to a great emotional climax.The people with whom John Burnside wrestles in "A Normal Skin" are much more ghostly and wraith-like than Mr Williams's.

The Economist

It is a different modality, an intensifier to all of that.When writing a novel set over nearly a century, how do you deal with changing value systems?One of the problems for authors of the contemporary era who want to go back before the first world war is writing about fucking and saying the word "fuck".

The Economist

In describing a luminescent phosphor, the following information is pertinent: crystal class and chemical composition of the host crystal, activator (type and percentage), coactivator (intensifier activator), temperature and time of crystallization process, emission spectrum (or at least visual colour), and persistence.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Titania is called an intensifier activator because it increases the host-crystal luminescence, whereas a substance that produces luminescence not exhibited by the chemically pure host crystal is called an originative activator.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Eugenol is used in germicides, perfumes, and mouthwashes, in the synthesis of vanillin, and as a sweetener or intensifier.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

America's image-intensifier tubes are so superior to the competition's that their export is controlled by the Departments of State and Commerce, in consultation with the defense secretary and the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

The New York Times - Magazine

And it can carry out those missions because of a cylinder called the image-intensifier tube, which is the heart of night-vision devices.

The New York Times - Magazine

Mr Fullerton makes you see just how difficult it would be for the Americans, for all their night-sights and image-intensifiers, SIGINT, ELINT and satellite photographs, to track a man down in such a landscape especially one protected by the intricacies of kinship, shared battles and wealth.He's capable of a biting line in cynicism, too.

The Economist

Her own style is sticky with vulgar intensifiers: "so", "still", "much", "very", "only", "extraordinary", "brilliant", "supremely".

The Economist

The effect also is employed in image intensifiers that produce a bright image of a faintly illuminated object.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "intensifier" in writing, ensure the context is clear. It can refer to a word, a device, or a chemical, so specify which meaning you intend.

Common error

Avoid using "intensifier" too frequently in your writing, as it can make your prose sound repetitive and academic. Consider varying your vocabulary with synonyms like "amplifier" or "enhancer" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "intensifier" is as a noun. It refers to something that enhances or strengthens something else. Ludwig AI confirms this as it refers to a word or particle that heightens or lowers the intensity of meaning of an item.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

6%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intensifier" functions primarily as a noun, denoting something that amplifies or enhances. As highlighted by Ludwig, it is a grammatically sound term used across diverse fields, from language analysis to imaging technology. While its usage spans different contexts, it is particularly prevalent in news, encyclopedias and media, suggesting a neutral to professional register. When employing "intensifier", clarity is key; ensure your audience understands whether you're referring to a linguistic element, a device, or a chemical agent. Avoid overuse to maintain prose clarity and flow. Exploring synonyms like "amplifier" or "enhancer" can enrich your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intensifying agent

Specifically refers to a substance or element that heightens the effect of something else.

amplifier

Focuses on the concept of increasing signal strength or effect, applicable in both literal and figurative senses.

enhancer

Highlights the improvement or augmentation of a quality or characteristic.

booster

Implies an increase in power, effectiveness, or intensity, often in a specific context such as technology or health.

augmenter

Stresses the addition of something to increase size, quantity, or degree.

accentuator

Focuses on emphasizing or highlighting a particular aspect or feature.

magnifier

Emphasizes the act of making something appear larger or more significant, often used metaphorically.

stressor

While often negative, can also mean something that emphasizes or highlights a particular feature.

escalator

Implies a gradual increase in intensity or magnitude.

aggravator

While typically negative, it suggests something that makes a situation or feeling more intense.

FAQs

How is the word "intensifier" used in grammar?

In grammar, an "intensifier" is a word or phrase that strengthens the meaning of another word or phrase, such as 'very' or 'really'.

What are some examples of adverbs used as intensifiers?

Common adverbs used as intensifiers include "very", "extremely", "really", and "incredibly". These words increase the degree or strength of the adjective or adverb they modify.

Can nouns function as intensifiers?

While less common, certain nouns can function as intensifiers in specific contexts, emphasizing a particular quality or characteristic. For instance, a phrase like "a complete disaster" uses 'complete' to intensify the noun 'disaster'.

Is there a difference between an intensifier and an adjective?

Yes, an adjective modifies a noun, whereas an "intensifier" modifies an adjective or adverb to strengthen its meaning. For example, in the phrase "very good", 'good' is the adjective and 'very' is the intensifier.