A-Words After the Verb
Words like asleep and ajar usually come after a verb, not before a noun. This lesson helps you place them correctly in simple IELTS sentences.
Key idea
Many a-words (like asleep, awake, afloat, abroad, alone, ajar) behave like predicative adjectives: they usually appear after a verb (especially be, seem, feel, remain), not directly before a noun.
Common patterns
| Pattern | Meaning / Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| be + a-word | state/condition | Many commuters were asleep on the train. |
| seem/appear + a-word | impression | The country appears afloat economically, but inequality is rising. |
| leave + noun + a-word | cause a state | The policy left many families alone and unsupported. |
IELTS Writing upgrade
Instead of basic adjectives, a-words can add precision (when correct):
-
Basic: The door was open.
-
Better: The door was ajar. (slightly open)
-
Basic: He was sleeping.
-
Better: He was asleep. (state)
Quick practice
Rewrite using an a-word (if possible):
- The passengers were sleeping.
- The door was slightly open.
- Many elderly people live by themselves.
Mini-quiz
- Choose the correct version: A) an asleep passenger, B) a sleeping passenger, C) the passenger was asleep.
- Fix the sentence: “The ajar door caused panic.”
Answer key
- B and C.
- Better: “The door, which was ajar, caused panic.” OR “The slightly ajar door caused panic.”
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