Adverbs

Adverbs enhance the sentences by giving us more information. They make our language more precise and help us understand the details of an action or situation. Adverbs add depth to our communication by answering questions like "how?", "when?", "where?", and "to what extent?".

What is an adverb?

An adverb is a word that describes or gives more information about a verb, adjective, another adverb, or even a whole sentence. Many adverbs end in "-ly", but remember, not all adverbs follow this pattern. Some adverbs, like "fast" or "hard", don't end in "-ly". 

Adverbs and verbs

• Speak loudly so everyone can hear you.
• She sings beautifully in the choir.

Adverbs and adjectives

• The weather became extremely cold overnight.
• The dessert tasted unbelievably delicious.

Adverbs and other adverbs

• The old clock's hands turned incredibly slowly.
• The conference was extremely badly organized.

Adverbs and sentences

• Fortunately, the exam questions were easier than expected.
• Obviously, we don't want any misunderstandings.

Types of adverbs

There are many different types of adverbs. Each one serves a unique purpose. Let's explore the types of adverbs to learn more about them.

Adverbs of time

Adverbs of time tell us when or for how long something happens. They give us information about the timing or duration of an event. 

• I am busy now.
• I will finish my homework today.
• We have a meeting tomorrow.

Adverbs of frequency

Adverbs of frequency are adverbs of time that tell us how frequently something happens. They give us information about the regularity or frequency of an event.

• I always brush my teeth before bed.
• I often go for a walk in the evening.
• I never skip my morning routine.

Adverbs of place

Adverbs of place describe the location or position of an action or verb in a sentence. They answer the question "where?".

• Come here and sit next to me.
• The cat is over there, near the window.
• I searched everywhere for my keys.

Adverbs of manner

Adverbs of manner tell us how something happens or how someone does something.

• The children played happily in the snow.
• She speaks English fluently.
• He completed the puzzle quickly.

Adverbs of degree

Adverbs of degree describe the intensity, degree, or extent of an adjective, adverb, or verb in a sentence. They answer the question "to what extent" or "how much".

• She is very happy.
• The weather is extremely hot.
• The movie was so interesting.

Adverbs of purpose

Adverbs of purpose (also known as adverbs of reason) help us understand why something happens or the intention behind an action. They answer the question "why?".

• He didn't study for the exam, and consequently, he failed.
• She's underage and therefore not eligible to vote.
• The storm damaged the roof, hence the need for urgent repairs.

Focusing adverbs

We use focusing adverbs to highlight or draw attention to a particular part of a sentence. These adverbs help emphasize the importance or significance of a specific word or idea.

• I only want a small piece of cake.
• There is just one method that suits everyone.
• She mostly wears casual clothes to work.

Evaluative adverbs

Evaluative adverbs are used to express the speaker's opinion or comment on the action or situation described in a sentence.

• Clearly, this will cost more than we anticipated.
• Not surprisingly, he was selected as the team captain.
• Apparently, it is going to be hot this weekend.

Viewpoint adverbs

Viewpoint adverbs tell us whose point of view we are expressing, or who supports the statement.

• In my opinion, it's a very sound investment.
• Personally, I don't believe it's true.
• In political terms, elections decide who runs the country.

Linking adverbs

Linking adverbs connect ideas or clauses in a sentence. They tell us how the information in one part relates to the information in another.

• The weather was ideal for a picnic. However, they decided to stay indoors.
• She was cooking dinner. Meanwhile, he set the table.
• He excels in sports, and moreover, he is an excellent student.