Verbal Abipty - Adverbs

Introduction

An adverb is a word used to modify or describe verbs. These words are used to explain the manner in which an action takes place. It answers the “how” questions asked on the action, i.e., verbs.

For Example

Sheetal was speaking. (We know that Sheetal was talking to someone).

Sheetal was speaking excitedly. (The adverb “excitedly” explains the way she was speaking.)

Adverbs are used in many ways in sentences and can be found mentioned near the main verb of the sentence.

Important − One of the most confusing things about adverbs is that it can be formed by adding the letters “-ly” to adjectives. For example - simple becomes simply. However, the tricky part is that many adjectives also end with “ly” and many adverbs don’t use “ly” at all.

Examples of adverbs not using “ly”.

Everywhere

Somewhere

Downstairs

Examples of adjectives using “ly”.

Masterly touch

Lovely person

Utterly depcious

Other Apppcations of Adverbs

1. Adverbs are also used to modify an adjective’s intensity.

For Example

He is a good singer. (The adjective is “good”)

He is a very good singer. (The adverb “very” increases the intensity of the adjective “good”)

2. Adverbs also tell us where the action happened.

For Example

My dog follows me everywhere. (“everywhere” is the adverb)

Please go inside. I am waiting here. (“inside, here” are adverbs)

3. Adverbs also tell us when or how often an action took place.

For Example

He reached at the spot after me. (“after” is the adverb)

He has always slept on this bed. (“always” is the adverb)

4. Many adverbs tell us the extent of the action.

For Example

He has almost completed the task.

He has been working too hard.

5. Some adverbs operate purely as intensifiers.

For Example

He absolutely loves this song.

He has certainly forgotten about the movie.

6. Adverbs that tell how an action was done.

For Example

He walked briskly towards the canal.

He repped cheerfully to the phone call.