English Studies
Grade 8
8/5/20

Adverbs

An adverb is a word that describes a verb, an adjective or another adverb. It makes the meaning of the word it modifies(describes) more specific.

They do this by answering the questions - how?, when?, where?, and to what extent?

Note: the suffix -ly usually signals that a word is an adverb. Such adverbs answer the question - how and they are called, adverbs of manner. eg

1) She mopped the classroom thoroughly.
2) He has carefully done it.
3)We did it hastily.
4) She sang melodiously.

In the sentences above, thoroughly explains HOW the classroom was mopped.

In sentence 2, carefully explains HOW he did it.
In sentence 3, hastily explained HOW we did it.
In sentence 4, melodiously explains HOW she sang the song.
Note: When an adverb answers the question - how?, it modifies a verb.


An averb of time answers the question WHEN? e.g
1) Send it to them now.
2) I saw him yesterday.
3) I will call you later.

Note: NOW in sentence 1 modifies the verb - send.

In sentence 2, YESTERDAY modifies - saw.

In sentence 3, LATER modifies 'will call'.

Adverbs of place

An averb of place describes the location where the action of a verb takes place.
1) Bring it HERE
2) Her house is NEARBY.
3) They headed EASTWARDS.

An adverb of degree answers the question - to what degree? It usually modifies an adjective. e.g

1) The tea is VERY hot.
2) She is Too weak  to stand.

Assignment

Identify the adverb in each sentence and write the word they modify.

1) Diamonds are very valuable stones.
2)  They have always been prized as gems.
3) Diamonds are used for practical purposes here.
4) One spacecraft was handsomely equipped with a diamond window.


Good luck

Clara O