Writers Workshop: Writer Resources
Grammar Handbook: Adverbs
An adverb is a word or group of words that modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. They come in three different classes: simple, interrogative, and conjunctive. Also see below for some common mistakes with adverbs.
Simple Adverb
A simple adverb is used as a simple modifier telling manner, time, place, degree, or number.
Examples:
- Eric jumped yesterday.
- The table belongs there.
- He seemed extremely edgy.
- She came to the party first.
Interrogative Adverb
An interrogative adverb asks a question.
Example:
- Where have you been?
Conjunctive Adverb
A conjunctive adverb connects independent clauses. Some common conjunctive adverbs are "accordingly," "also," "anyhow," "besides," "consequently," "however," "moreover," "nevertheless," "otherwise," "still," "then," "therefore," and "yet." Use a semicolon before the conjunctive adverb to join the two clauses.
Example:
- Michael did not do his homework; however, he still received good grades.
Common Mistakes
- Most is an adjective, but almost is an adverb
- Easy is an adjective, but easily is an adverb
- Good is an adjective, but well is an adverb