adverb
An adverb is a part of speech used to modify a verb, an adjective, another adverb, or a whole sentence. It typically expresses manner, place, time, frequency, degree, or level of certainty.
Examples
3 of 5She spoke quietly so as not to wake the sleeping baby.
She talked in a low volume to avoid disturbing the infant's sleep.
The committee will subsequently review the proposal after the initial audit.
The group will look at the plan later following the first official check.
I'll be there really soon, I just need to grab my keys.
I will arrive very shortly once I have my keys.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Look at the word itself: AD-VERB. It tells you that it ADds information to a VERB.
Quick Quiz
The professional driver handled the sharp turn ___.
Correct!
The correct answer is: skilfully
Examples
She spoke quietly so as not to wake the sleeping baby.
everydayShe talked in a low volume to avoid disturbing the infant's sleep.
The committee will subsequently review the proposal after the initial audit.
formalThe group will look at the plan later following the first official check.
I'll be there really soon, I just need to grab my keys.
informalI will arrive very shortly once I have my keys.
The data were analyzed quantitatively to determine the statistical significance.
academicThe information was studied using numbers to find meaningful patterns.
We must act decisively to ensure we do not lose our market share.
businessWe need to make firm decisions quickly to keep our position in the industry.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
relative adverb
an adverb that introduces a relative clause
sentence adverb
an adverb that modifies the entire meaning of a sentence
adverbial phrase
a group of words that functions as an adverb
Often Confused With
Adjectives describe nouns and pronouns, while adverbs describe verbs, adjectives, and other adverbs.
Usage Notes
While many adverbs are formed by adding '-ly' to an adjective, some are irregular (like 'well') or look the same as adjectives (like 'fast'). They can usually be moved to different positions in a sentence without changing the basic meaning.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use an adjective when an adverb is required, such as saying 'he runs quick' instead of 'he runs quickly'.
Memory Tip
Look at the word itself: AD-VERB. It tells you that it ADds information to a VERB.
Word Origin
Derived from the Latin 'adverbium', where 'ad-' means 'to' and 'verbum' means 'word' or 'verb'.
Grammar Patterns
Quick Quiz
The professional driver handled the sharp turn ___.
Correct!
The correct answer is: skilfully
Related Grammar Rules
Related Words
proceed
C1The noun form, typically used in the plural 'proceeds,' refers to the total amount of money received from a particular event, sale, or activity. It is a formal term used in academic, legal, and business contexts to describe the result of a financial transaction or fundraising effort.
individual
C1Relating to a single person or thing as distinct from a group. It describes something that is intended for, or used by, one person rather than a collective entity.
appropriately
B2To perform an action in a manner that is suitable, right, or proper for a particular situation, person, or occasion. It implies following specific social norms, professional standards, or logical requirements.
region
B2A region is an area of land that has common features, such as geography, climate, or culture, which distinguish it from other areas. It can refer to a large part of a country or the world and is often used in administrative or scientific contexts to organize space.
resource
B2A stock or supply of money, materials, staff, and other assets that can be drawn on by a person or organization in order to function effectively. In academic and informational contexts, it refers to a source of information or expertise used to support research or learning.
to
A1Used to indicate the place, person, or thing that someone or something moves toward. It can also mark the recipient of an action or the limit of a range.
and
A1A primary conjunction used to connect words, phrases, or clauses that are grammatically equal. It indicates addition, a sequence of events, or a relationship between two things.
a
A1A word used before a singular noun that is not specific or is being mentioned for the first time. It is used only before words that begin with a consonant sound to indicate one of something.
that
A1This word is a demonstrative pronoun used to indicate a specific person, object, or idea that is further away in space or time from the speaker. It is also used to refer back to something that has already been mentioned or to introduce a clause that identifies something.
I
A1The pronoun 'I' is used by a speaker or writer to refer to themselves as the subject of a verb. It is the first-person singular subject pronoun in English and is always capitalized regardless of its position in a sentence.
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