Amerilingua

Grammar: Not + Too + Adjective

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Is your glass half full or half empty? In this lesson, students will explore how to use adjectives to describe people and things. They'll also learn and practice opposite adjectives, building vocabulary around this theme. The lesson is packed with engaging discussions and activities, along with worksheets designed for both adult and teenage learners.
A1 Beginner   |   General English, Speaking Lessons   |   Text   |   Opposites   |   45 min   | A1-1

What is the "Not + Too + Adjective" Structure in English Grammar?

The "not + too + adjective" structure in English is used to convey a moderate degree of a quality, often to imply that something is satisfactory or acceptable, though not to an extreme extent. This structure softens the intensity of the adjective and is often used to make statements more polite or less absolute.

Usage and Examples

The "not + too + adjective" construction is typically used to express that something is not excessively characterized by the adjective. Here are some common examples:

Not too hot: Indicates a temperature that is warm but not excessively so.
  • Example: "The soup is not too hot, so you can eat it right away."
Not too expensive: Implies that something is affordable or reasonably priced.
  • Example: "The hotel is not too expensive, making it a great choice for budget travelers."
Not too difficult: Suggests that a task or challenge is manageable or within one's capability.
  • Example: "The exam was not too difficult, and most students passed easily."
Not too far: Means that a distance is manageable or convenient.
  • Example: "The park is not too far from here, so we can walk."
Importance in Communication

Using the "not + too + adjective" structure can be important for several reasons:

Politeness: It helps soften statements, making them sound more polite and less critical.
  • Example: "The presentation was not too long, which kept the audience engaged."
Moderation: It conveys a moderate view, avoiding extreme descriptions.
  • Example: "The movie was not too scary, so even kids could watch it."
Flexibility: It provides flexibility in expressing opinions and observations, making language more nuanced.
  • Example: "This dress is not too fancy, but it's perfect for the occasion."
Examples in Sentences:
  • "The weather is not too cold today, so a light jacket will be fine."
  • "This task is not too complicated; you should be able to finish it quickly."
  • "The journey is not too long, so we won’t need many breaks."
Master "Not + Too + Adjective" with AmeriLingua's ESL Lesson Plans

At AmeriLingua, we specialize in providing high-quality ESL lessons and comprehensive lesson plans designed to help learners master English grammar, including the use of structures like "not + too + adjective." Our well-structured resources ensure that you or your students can confidently use this structure to express moderate degrees of qualities and enhance communication. Whether you are a teacher looking for detailed lesson plans or a student aiming to improve your English skills, AmeriLingua has the resources you need.