Grammar Handbook: Adverbs

The Center for Writing Studies, The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

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.
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:: Interrogative Adverb
An interrogative adverb asks a question.

Example: Where have you been?
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:: 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.
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:: 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
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