What Is an Adverb?
An adverb modifies a verb, an adjective, or another adverb. Adverbs tell us how, when, where, how often, or to what degree something happens.
Checklist
- 1She sings beautifully.
- 2You look absolutely fabulous.
- 3He drives carefully.
The Five Types of Adverbs
Adverbs can be grouped by the question they answer.
Checklist
- 1Manner: quickly, carefully, quietly
- 2Time: yesterday, soon, already
- 3Place: here, there, nearby
- 4Frequency: always, sometimes, rarely
- 5Degree: very, quite, almost
How to Form Adverbs
Most adverbs are formed by adding -ly to an adjective. Easy becomes easily, happy becomes happily, and basic becomes basically. Some words such as fast, hard, early, and late keep the same form.
Good and Well
Good is an adjective and well is an adverb. Say He is a good driver, but He drives well.
Common Mistakes
Place frequency adverbs before the main verb but after the verb to be. Use faster rather than more fast, and remember that lately means recently, not late.
Key Takeaways
Adverbs improve precision when they are placed naturally and used to communicate a clear meaning.
