Adverbs for commenting
Introduction
"Presumably, you've tried looking in this folder. "Yes, generally, that's where I'd expect to find it but it isn't there."
Definition
These adverbs are used to make a comment or judgement on something or to indicate which viewpoint we are speaking from.
Construction
Commenting and viewpoint adverbs are often placed at the beginning of a sentence or clause, followed by a comma, because they relate to the entire sentence or clause:
Honestly, I think it's a bad idea. [The speaker is giving you an honest opinion.]
She deals with people honestly. ['in an honest way' - an adverb of manner]
Amazingly, he did well in his exam. [I'm amazed about his exam result.]
He did amazingly well in his exam. [an intensifier meaning 'extremely well']
They can, however, be placed in the middle or at the end.
Clearly, she's the best person for the job.
She's clearly the best person for the job.
She's the best person for the job, clearly.
Because word order depends on the type and meaning of the adverb, if in doubt, refer to a good dictionary for example sentences.
Uses
| Use | Examples |
| To express a view on how likely something is | Apparently, Alex is considering applying for a job in Japan. [This appears to be the case for the speaker but he isn't sure.]
Undoubtedly, it would be a great opportunity for him.
Surely, he'll accept it if it's offered to him, won't he?
Other examples: certainly, clearly, definitely, obviously, probably
|
| To show our attitude or opinion | Amazingly, he turned the offer down! [The speaker is amazed.]
Frankly, I think he's mad.
Seriously, though, I think he'll regret it.
Other examples: curiously, hopefully, interestingly, luckily, naturally, sadly, strangely, surprisingly, unbelievably
|
| To make a judgement of what someone does | Foolishly, he didn't appreciate all the potential benefits. [The speaker thinks Alex is foolish.]
His boss generously gave him some more time to think it over.
Wisely, Alex has agreed to reconsider.
Other examples: bravely, carelessly, kindly, rightly, stupidly, wrongly
|
| To indicate the viewpoint from which we are speaking - identifying which aspect of something we're talking about | Although it made the company more well-known, financially, it was a disaster.
He's up to the job physically but not mentally.
Politically, the country is more stable now but crime remains a problem.
Other examples: emotionally, environmentally, logically, medically, morally, spiritually, technically, visually
|
Examples
Obviously, I don't expect you to remember all of this for tomorrow's test.
Hopefully, it will stop raining soon.
Stupidly, I agreed to work late tonight - what was I thinking?!
Visually, we decided this was the best spot but environmentally, we could face opposition.
