How to use "Enough" in English Grammar (2024)

Enough has three functions in the English language that we are going to learn in this lesson.

Functions of Enough

1.'Enough' as a Determiner

Use

'Enough' as a determiner modifies a noun and it means 'equal to what is needed, as much as something is needed' Look:

Have you got enough books to lend?

That's enough money for this trip; let's get started.

Position in a Sentence

'Enough' as a determiner stands before a noun or a noun phrase. It does not matter if the noun is countable or uncountable. For example:

2. 'Enough' as an Adverb

Use

He shouted enough.

I talked about it enough.

Position in a Sentence

If 'enough' as an adverb modifies another adverb or an adjective, it comes after them.
If it modifies a verb, it can stand at the end of the sentence after the verb.
Remember that we should use to-infinitive after the adverb 'enough.'

3. 'Enough' as a Pronoun

Use

'Enough' as a pronoun replaces a noun and can act as a subject, an object, etc. It is used to show an amount that provides what is needed or is enough.'

Position in a Sentence

'Enough' as a pronoun replaces the noun it refers to and it can act as the subject or the object of the sentence, look:

I am full, that's enough.

Difference Between the Adverb 'Enough' and Pronoun 'Enough'

Note that the adverb 'enough' that modifies a verb can be left out without any changes to the meaning of the whole sentence, while the pronoun 'enough' completes the verb or the sentence and cannot be left out.