The problem of modifiers.

I think about syntax a lot, modifiers. As an example, lately I keep repeating in my head:

"I'm a real grumpy asshole."

But what I really want is for the "real" to modify "asshole." I haven't been "really grumpy." I've just been grumpy. But I think I've been a bona fide asshole. It just sounds wrong to say:

"I'm a grumpy real asshole."

If "grumpy asshole" were a hyphenate, that would be a little better. But it's not. But I could make it one.

"I'm a real grumpy-asshole."

F'ing language. I do what I want.