Definition / Explanation
Many adjectives come in pairs with -ed and -ing endings. -ed adjectives usually describe how a person feels. -ing adjectives usually describe the thing, person, or situation that creates that feeling. For example, I am bored describes my feeling, and the film is boring describes the film. This is a very common pattern, so it is important to connect form and meaning.
Key Rules
- Use -ed for feelings: I am bored.
- Use -ing for the cause: The film is boring.
- Common pairs are interested/interesting, excited/exciting, tired/tiring, surprised/surprising.
- People are usually interested, bored, excited.
- Things and situations are usually interesting, boring, exciting.
Examples
- I am bored.
- This book is boring.
- We are excited about the trip.
- The news is surprising.
- She is interested in art.
Common Mistakes
- ❌ I am boring. -> ✅ I am bored.
- ❌ This film is bored. -> ✅ This film is boring.
- ❌ She is interesting in art. -> ✅ She is interested in art.
Tips
- A simple memory trick: -ed = the person feels it, -ing = the thing gives the feeling.