1. Adverbs of manner answer the question “How?” “In what way?”
They modify verbs or adjectives, rarely adverbs. Most of them are formed from adjectives by adding ly.
- Tom answered courageously.
- The poor child looked helplessly about.
- Softly and silently fell the snow.
- The pain was terribly severe.
- The river rose surprisingly fast.
2. Adverbs of time answer the question “When?” They usually modify verbs. Thus,—
- The old castle is now a museum.
- He was recently promoted.
- I have been disturbed lately.
- My friend arrives to-day.
- James was then a boy of seven.
- I have already rung the bell.
- Afterwards he regretted his haste.
3. Adverbs of place answer the question “Where?” They usually modify verbs. Thus,—
- Come here.
- Yonder stands the culprit.
- An old sailor came forward.
- My sister is out.
- I was abroad that winter.
4. Adverbs of degree answer the question “To what degree or extent?” They modify verbs, adjectives, and adverbs. Thus,—
- Arthur is rather tall.
- Father was much pleased.
- Father was very much pleased.
- The task seemed utterly hopeless.
- That is hardly possible.
- That is not possible.
191. Some adverbs have the same form as the corresponding adjectives.