Overview
An adverb phrase is a group of words built around an adverb as its head. Examples: very quickly, quite surprisingly, far too slowly. Adverb phrases modify verbs (She spoke very clearly), adjectives (an extremely difficult task), or other adverbs (She worked quite surprisingly well). They answer how, when, where, or to what degree.
What Is an Adverb Phrase?
- structureAn adverb as head + optional modifiers.
- exampleVery quickly — intensifier + adverb head.
- exampleFar too slowly — two modifiers + adverb head.
- modifies verbShe spoke very clearly.
- modifies adj.An extremely difficult task.
Functions
- mannerHe drove quite recklessly.
- degreeThe film was surprisingly good.
- timeShe arrived much too late.
- frequencyHe visits almost never.
- placeThey searched everywhere possible.
Common Mistakes
- ❌ She spoke real quiet → ✅ She spoke really quietly.
- ❌ He ran very fastly → ✅ He ran very fast.
- ❌ Quite good enough → ✅ Good enough (no 'quite' needed).
When to use
Adding Precision
She answered almost immediately.
Showing Degree
The results were far better than expected.
Modifying Time
He arrived much earlier than planned.
Formal Writing
The proposal was surprisingly well-received.