Adjectives + intensifiers

[solntsecvet]

I was reading about strong intensifiers (absolutely, totally, utterly, etc) which should be used with strong (non-gradable) adjectives. I’ve discovered that there are some adjectives (like freezing) which can’t be used with an intensifier, and some adjectives require a definite intensifier, but I can’t find a specific grammar rule that dictates which adjectives can or cannot be intensified. There are certain adjectives that are already considered extreme or intense in their meaning and generally don't require intensifiers because it would be redundant. This is not clear at all. So, we can’t say “ablsolutely unique”, whereas the phrase “ablsolutely perfect” sounds good. Why is that? I consider these adjectives on the same level, speaking about their gradability, if I can say so. How can we define where to use an intensifier and which one?

 

[Tarheel]

Well, "unique" is supposed to mean "one of a kind", but people still say things like "very unique". Hm.

 

[SoothingDave]

The preamble to the US Constitution speaks of forming a "more perfect union."

By which I mean, there are always going to be people who intensify words that seem to be "non-gradable."

Language is messier in real life. I am sure I have said "it's really freezing out there!" at one time or another.

It's not so much about technically saying if it's below 32 degrees F or not. It's about saying it's very cold.

 

[Piscean]

This is a question of style, rather than grammar.

 

[jutfrank]

So, we can’t say “absolutely unique”, whereas the phrase “absolutely perfect” sounds good.

Who told you that?