25.11.03
Position of adverbs of manner
Adverbs of manner: after the object or after the verb
The most usual position of adverbs of manner is after the object or after the verb: e.g.
* after the object
The most usual position of adverbs of manner is after the object or after the verb: e.g.
* after the object
Sue watched the monkeys curiously.
Look at this photo carefully.
Look at this photo carefully.
* after the verb
It snowed heavily last January.
* after an adverb particle
He took the picture down carefully.
The important thing is not to put the adverb between the verb and its object. But even this is possible if the object is very long:
We could see very clearly a strange light ahead of us.
Adverbs of manner: between subject and verb
One-word adverbs of manner can sometimes go between the subject and the verb. (This rarely applies to adverbial phrases.) If we wish to emphasize the subject of the verb, we can say:
One-word adverbs of manner can sometimes go between the subject and the verb. (This rarely applies to adverbial phrases.) If we wish to emphasize the subject of the verb, we can say:
Gillian angrily slammed the door behind her.
However, well and badly, when used to evaluate an action, can only go at the end of a sentence or clause:
Mr Grandgrind pays his staff very well/badly.
With some adverbs of manner, such as bravely, cleverly, cruelly, foolishly, generously, kindly, secretly, simply, a change of position results in a difference in emphasis. Compare the following:
He foolishly locked himself out. (= It was foolish (of him) to...)
He behaved foolishly at the party. (= in a foolish manner)
He behaved foolishly at the party. (= in a foolish manner)
With others, such as badly, naturally, a change of position results in a change of meaning and function:
You typed this letter very badly. (adverb of manner)
We badly need a new typewritter. (intensifier)
You should always speak naturally. (adverb of manner)
Naturally, I'll accept the invitation. (viewpoint adverb)
We badly need a new typewritter. (intensifier)
You should always speak naturally. (adverb of manner)
Naturally, I'll accept the invitation. (viewpoint adverb)
Adverbs of manner: beginning a sentence
In narrative writing (but normally in speech) sentences can begin with adverb of manner, such as gently, quietly, slowly, suddenly. We do this for dramatic effect, or to create suspense. Such adverbs are followed by a comma:
In narrative writing (but normally in speech) sentences can begin with adverb of manner, such as gently, quietly, slowly, suddenly. We do this for dramatic effect, or to create suspense. Such adverbs are followed by a comma:
O'Connor held his breath and stood quite still. Quietly, he moved forwards to get a better view.
