Adverbs: Positioning and Usage
Adverbs modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, indicating manner, time, frequency, degree, or place. Understanding their different positions in sentences is crucial in mastering English grammar. This article examines the three regular positions of adverbs and provides examples of adverbs that favour each position.
Initial Position
Adverbs denoting time, location, or contrast with a previous reference of time or location, often prefer the initial position. For instance:
i. Yesterday, I visited my grandmother. ii. Here comes the bride. iii. Contrary to popular belief, carrots are not always orange.
As the examples above show, the adverbs "yesterday" and "here" indicate time and location, respectively. On the other hand, "Contrary to popular belief" contrasts with a previously held belief.
Mid Position
Focusing adverbs, adverbs of indefinite frequency, adverbs of certainty, and adverbs of degree can be used in the mid-position. For instance:
i. He only plays football on weekends. ii. We often go to the movies on Fridays. iii. She will probably come to the party.
In the above examples, "only," "often," and "probably" are adverbs of focus, indefinite frequency, and certainty, respectively. The adverb "only" emphasizes the verb "plays" in the mid-position. The adverb "often" modifies the verb "go," indicating how frequently the action occurs. The adverb "probably" expresses the speaker's certainty about the future event.
End Position
Adverbs denoting time, place, and frequency of action generally occupy the end position. Adverbs of manner can also be placed at the end of the sentence. For instance:
i. She speaks French fluently. ii. We have a meeting tomorrow. iii. They rarely eat out.
In the above examples, "fluently," "tomorrow," and "rarely" are adverbs of manner, time, and frequency, respectively. Adverbs of the manner in the end position describe how the action was carried out. Adverbs of time and frequency indicate when or how often the action occurs.
In conclusion, understanding the position of adverbs is vital in conveying the intended meaning of a sentence. Different types of adverbs favour different positions, and their placement can significantly affect the sentence's meaning. Therefore, learning the proper use and placement of adverbs enhances writing and communication skills.