Adverbs describe or modify verbs, adjectives, or other
adverbs.
• smoothly, very, often, hopefully
Many adverbs have three degrees: positive, comparative,
and superlative.
• little (positive), less (comparative),
least (superlative)
• beautifully (positive), more beautifully
(comparative), most beautifully (superlative)
When comparing two (and only two) things, use a comparative
adverb.
• Sheldon sings more beautifully than
his brother does.
When comparing three or more things, use a superlative
adverb.
• Of all the kids in fourth grade, Sheldon’s
brother lies the most smoothly.
Some adverbs don’t have comparative or superlative
degrees. These include time-related adverbs like immediately, now, last, first, and
so on.
Incorrect: Firstliest,
Quentin read aloud from his journal.
• First, Quentin read aloud from his
journal.
Be sure to put an adverb as close as possible to the
word it is modifying. Otherwise, confusion may result.
Unclear: Gabrielle
likes to show off secretly.
It’s not clear whether Gabrielle likes to show off
in secret or whether she secretly likes the opportunity to show
off.
Clear: Gabrielle
secretly likes to show off.
Also Clear: Gabrielle
likes to show off in secret.
When modifying a verb phrase like could appreciate, will
do, should land, and so on, you can put
the adverb right before the verb. Don’t worry that you’re creating
the equivalent of a split infinitive—you’re not.
• The Lost Boys could potentially appreciate
Hook’s good qualities.
• Wendy swears she will definitely do
the dishes sometime soon.
• Peter should certainly land in Neverland
by five o’clock tonight.
