Such adjectives as _unexampled, unparalleled, unprecedented,_ do not admit of comparison, hence such expressions as _the most unexampled _bravery, _the most unparalleled heroism,_ etc., should be avoided.
This verb should be distinguished from _express_ or _say. Utter _carries with it the idea of articulate expression, except in the sense of _uttering_ false coins or forged notes.
As an adjective it is defined by _complete, perfect, absolute,_ etc., but it can be applied only to what is unpleasant or unfavorable. “I enjoyed _utter_ happiness” would be an absurd expression, but “I was doomed to _utter_ misery” illustrates a proper use of the word.
These words are not synonymous; _valuable_ means precious, costly, having value; _valued_ refers to our estimation of the worth. “He is one of our most _valued_ contributors,” not _valuable,_ unless you are thinking of the value of his contributions and the smallness of the compensation.
A few participles used as adjectives may be directly modified by _too_ or _very;_ as, “I was _very tired,” “_He was _too fatigued_ to go farther.”
We sometimes hear the expression, “I was _very pleased,”_ but the critics insist upon “I was _very much_ pleased,” or “greatly pleased,” or “very greatly pleased.”
Often too high-sounding a word for the thought; _neighborhood_ is less pretentious.
The use of such words as _dad, daddy, mam, mammy, the old man, the old woman,_ when applied to parents, not only indicates a lack of refinement, but shows positive disrespect. The words _pap, pappy, governor, _etc., are also objectionable. After the first lispings of childhood the words _papa_ and _mamma_, properly accented, should be insisted upon by parents, and at the age of twelve or fifteen the words _father_ and _mother_ should be substituted and ever after used, as showing a proper respect on the part of children.
“He gave me a _great big_ apple.” This is a colloquialism that should be avoided. Use _large._
“The hollow whistling of the wind among the trees _argues_ an approaching storm.” Use _augurs._
_Barbaric_ refers to a people; _barbarous_ to their low state of life and their habits of cruelty.
A colloquialism in very frequent use. “I will _cut_ this melon _in half_ and share it with you.” Say, _cut in two,_ or _cut in halves,_ or _cut in two parts._