Learn English – “How+adjective” vs ‘”How much +adjective”

adverbsdifferencequantifiers

1) How good are you?

2) How much good are you?

Is the second sentence correct? What's the difference between #1) and #2)?
I know that it's a simple question but I need some clarification.

Best Answer

In general, much, as an adverb modifying adjectives, is used with a comparative adjective. Per the OED,

much, adv: modifying an expression of comparison, esp. a comparative adjective or adverb or a phrase containing a superlative adjective or adverb: in a great degree, by far

Your usage is more in line with the following colloquialism:

much, adv: modifying a positive adjective or adverb: very. Now U.S. regional (chiefly south.)

I would hesitate to call "much [adj]" ungrammatical, but it is fairly unusual with most non-comparative adjectives. When in doubt, you should probably leave off much.

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