Identifying the Part of Speech of 'Besides'

The question asks us to identify the part of speech of the underlined word "Besides" in the given sentence:

I don't think I'll come on Saturday. I have a lot of work to do. Besides , I don't really like parties.

Let's analyze the word "Besides" as it is used in this specific sentence.

Understanding the Word 'Besides'

The word "besides" can function as different parts of speech depending on how it is used in a sentence. It can be used as a preposition or as an adverb.

'Besides' as a Preposition

When "besides" is used as a preposition, it means "in addition to" or "apart from". It is typically followed by a noun or pronoun which is the object of the preposition.

Example: Besides coffee, we also ordered tea. (Here, 'Besides' is a preposition followed by the noun 'coffee')

'Besides' as an Adverb

When "besides" is used as an adverb, it typically means "in addition", "furthermore", or "moreover". It often connects two sentences or independent clauses, adding an extra point or reason. In this usage, it functions as a type of adverb called a conjunctive adverb. Conjunctive adverbs often appear at the beginning of a sentence, followed by a comma, or between two independent clauses, preceded by a semicolon and followed by a comma.

Example: I don't want to go out tonight; besides, I'm really tired. (Here, 'besides' is a conjunctive adverb)

Analyzing 'Besides' in the Given Sentence

In the sentence "Besides, I don't really like parties," the word "Besides" is followed by a comma and then a complete independent clause ("I don't really like parties"). It is introducing an additional reason why the speaker will not come on Saturday, adding to the reason given in the previous sentence ("I have a lot of work to do.").

This structure and meaning match the usage of "besides" as a conjunctive adverb, meaning "in addition" or "furthermore". Conjunctive adverbs are classified as adverbs.

Evaluating the Options

Let's look at the provided options:

1. Adjective: An adjective modifies a noun or pronoun. "Besides" in this sentence does not modify any noun or pronoun.
2. Adverb: An adverb modifies a verb, adjective, other adverb, or a whole clause/sentence. In this sentence, "Besides" acts as a conjunctive adverb, connecting and adding information to the previous statement. This fits the definition of an adverb.
3. Preposition: A preposition shows the relationship of a noun/pronoun to other words. It is followed by an object (noun/pronoun). In this sentence, "Besides" is not followed by a noun or pronoun acting as its object; it's followed by a comma and a clause. Therefore, it is not used as a preposition here.
4. Conjunction: Conjunctions connect words, phrases, or clauses. While conjunctive adverbs *do* connect ideas, they function grammatically as adverbs, not as typical coordinating or subordinating conjunctions. The punctuation (comma after "Besides" at the start of a sentence) is characteristic of a conjunctive adverb usage, not a standard conjunction.

Conclusion on Part of Speech

Based on its function and position in the sentence, the word "Besides" is acting as a conjunctive adverb, which is a type of adverb. It introduces an additional point, linking the current sentence to the previous one.

Therefore, the part of speech of "Besides" in the given sentence is Adverb.

Revision Table: Understanding 'Besides'

Let's summarize the key points about 'besides' as a part of speech:

• 'Besides' can be a preposition meaning 'in addition to'.
• 'Besides' can be an adverb (specifically a conjunctive adverb) meaning 'in addition' or 'furthermore'.
• Look at how 'besides' is used in the sentence, especially the words that come after it and the punctuation.
• If followed by a noun/pronoun, it's likely a preposition.
• If it starts a sentence (followed by a comma) or connects clauses (often with a semicolon before it), it's likely a conjunctive adverb (an adverb).

Additional Information: Conjunctive Adverbs

Conjunctive adverbs are adverbs that function like conjunctions, connecting independent clauses and showing the relationship between them. They provide transitions and indicate connections such as cause and effect, comparison, contrast, sequence, or addition.

Common conjunctive adverbs include:

• Addition: besides, moreover, furthermore, in addition
• Contrast: however, nevertheless, nonetheless, still
• Result: therefore, consequently, thus, hence, accordingly
• Sequence: then, next, finally
• Comparison: similarly, likewise

When connecting two independent clauses, conjunctive adverbs are usually preceded by a semicolon and followed by a comma:

Example: The weather was terrible; nevertheless, we went hiking.

They can also start a sentence (usually followed by a comma) or appear in the middle of a clause (often offset by commas):

Example: The weather was terrible. Nevertheless, we went hiking.

Example: We went hiking, nevertheless, despite the terrible weather.

In the original question's sentence, "Besides" is used at the beginning of the sentence followed by a comma, which is a typical structure for a conjunctive adverb functioning as an adverb.