"les puissants lobbies" ou "les lobbies puissants"

Question

A general question rather than a specific one, though this is an example. The lessons, as I understand them, teach that short, and some common adjectives go before the nouns, but otherwise (unless for particular stress) most adjectives go after the noun.

However, I have noticed that often these rules don't seem to apply. Puissant is neither short (in my mind one syllable), or common. However the text above places it before, but after is acceptable as well when the exercise is marked.

I have noticed this many times in doing the exercises. As a consequence, I am confused.

If the simple answer is that "short" means 2 syllables, I will be content.

Accepted Answer

Every student of French will undoubtedly encounter many so-called rules that are more like guidelines or recommendations. The rules for placement of adjectives is one such example. Sometimes, adjectives that are usually placed behind the noun can jump ahead of the noun. This happens mostly for stylistic reasons (it draws more attention to the adjective) and also because it makes the adjective-noun combination more specific and less general.
Also, when an adjective is placed before the noun, it can reflect a subjective opinion or personal judgment. Placing it after the noun often provides a more objective description.

Answer

Bonjour i,
Chris is correct! You might wish to take a look at the link below:
The position of délicieux in relation to the noun it is describing.
I hope this is helpful.
Bonne journée !