Definition & Meaning of "predeterminer"

What is a "predeterminer"?

A predeterminer is a word that appears before a determiner in a noun phrase, providing additional information about quantity or degree. Predeterminers help specify or modify the determiner that follows. Common examples include "all," "both," "half," and "twice." For instance, in the phrase "all the students," the word "all" serves as a predeterminer, specifying that every member of the group referred to by the determiner "the" is included. In "both the cars," "both" emphasizes that two specific cars are being referenced. Predeterminers enhance clarity and precision in communication by providing more detail about the nouns they modify.