Types of Words

There is another type of words that provides us with information about actions. We call these words adverbs.

Adverbs are like adjectives, but instead of describing nouns, they describe verbs, hence the term adverb. Adverbs tell us the manner or way in which those actions are performed. Adverbs answer the question, "How was it done?"

e.g. he waved at us frantically

e.g. they quickly passed the bill

Adverbs typically end in –ly (e.g. typically), but sometimes they don't (e.g. sometimes).

Occasionally, adverbs step outside of their role. Instead of describing verbs, they can describe whole sentences (a), other adverbs (b), or adjectives (c).

(a) Unfortunately, the reader is (b) quite (c) thoroughly confused.

Their main job, though, is describing verbs.