Adverbs
An adverb tells how, when, where, or to what extent (how much, how often, or how long).
EXAMPLES
- The surgeon proceeded cautiously. [how]
- They work here. [where]
- She understood the instructions entirely. [to what extent]
Adverbs Modifying Verbs
EXAMPLE
- She did not explain the instructions clearly. [The adverbs not and clearly describe the verb phrase did explain by telling how.]
Adverbs Modifying Adjectives
An adverb makes the meaning of an adjective more specific.
EXAMPLES
- The students were quite inventive with their projects. [The adverb quite describes the adjective inventive by telling to what extent.]
- An exceptionally musical child, Dinah played the piano at an early age. [The adverb exceptionally describes the adjective musical by telling to what extent.]
Adverbs Modifying Other Adverbs
An adverb makes the meaning of another adverb more specific.
EXAMPLES
- Is it too late to sign up for tryouts? [The adverb too modifies the adverb late by telling to what extent.]
- A beginner, he plays the guitar remarkably well. [The adverb remarkably modifies the adverb well by telling to what extent.]
Here is a list of different types of adverbs with examples for each:
1. Adverbs of Manner - describe how an action is performed
- quickly: She ran quickly to catch the bus.
- happily: She smiled happily at her friends.
- carefully: He handled the vase carefully.
2. Adverbs of Frequency - describe how often an action is performed
- often: He often goes to the gym.
- rarely: She rarely eats junk food.
- always: They always arrive on time.
3. Adverbs of Time - describe when an action is performed
- yesterday: We went to the park yesterday.
- soon: They will leave for vacation soon.
- now: I am writing this sentence now.
4. Adverbs of Place - describe where an action is performed
- here: Please come here.
- there: The car is parked over there.
- outside: The children are playing outside.
5. Adverbs of Degree - describe the intensity or degree of an action
- very: She is very happy.
- extremely: The movie was extremely exciting.
- quite: The food was quite salty.
Adverbs Quiz
Choose the word that is an adverb.