Identify the Adverb of Intensity/Degree. Choose the correct option from the following:
All of us were very tired.
Understanding Adverbs of Intensity and Degree
Adverbs are words that modify or describe verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. They provide more information about how, when, where, or to what extent something happens.
An Adverb of Intensity or Adverb of Degree tells us the strength or intensity of an action, quality, or other adverb. They answer the question "How much?" or "To what extent?". Common examples include: very, really, quite, almost, nearly, just, too, enough, completely, extremely.
Analyzing Each Option to Find the Adverb of Intensity
Let's examine each given sentence to identify the adverb and determine its type:
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He never writes anything but bills.
In this sentence, the adverb is "never". This adverb tells us how often the action (writes) happens. Therefore, "never" is an Adverb of Frequency.
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Wait here till I am back.
In this sentence, the adverb is "here". This adverb tells us where the action (wait) should take place. Therefore, "here" is an Adverb of Place.
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All of us were very tired.
In this sentence, the adverb is "very". This adverb modifies the adjective "tired". It tells us the extent or degree to which we were tired. Therefore, "very" is an Adverb of Intensity/Degree.
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I am no more interested in this institution.
In this sentence, the phrase "no more" functions adverbially. It can indicate lack of duration (similar to "no longer") or the degree of interest (lack of interest). While it relates to degree, "very" in option 3 is a more direct and classic example of an adverb of intensity modifying an adjective.
Based on the analysis, the sentence containing a clear Adverb of Intensity/Degree is the one where "very" is used to modify the adjective "tired", indicating the extent of tiredness.
Conclusion
The sentence "All of us were very tired." contains the adverb "very", which is an Adverb of Intensity or Degree because it modifies the adjective "tired" and indicates the extent or level of tiredness.
Revision Table: Types of Adverbs
| Type of Adverb | What it Tells | Example Words |
|---|---|---|
| Adverb of Manner | How an action is done | quickly, slowly, happily, sadly, carefully |
| Adverb of Place | Where an action is done | here, there, everywhere, upstairs, nearby |
| Adverb of Time | When an action is done | today, yesterday, tomorrow, now, later, soon |
| Adverb of Frequency | How often an action is done | always, usually, often, sometimes, rarely, never |
| Adverb of Intensity/Degree | To what extent or degree | very, quite, rather, extremely, almost, too |
Additional Information about Adverbs
Adverbs are versatile words in English grammar. They don't just modify verbs. They can also modify:
- Adjectives: As seen in the correct option, "very" modifies the adjective "tired". Adverbs often come before the adjective they modify (e.g., extremely happy, quite interesting).
- Other Adverbs: Adverbs can intensify or modify other adverbs. For example, "He ran very quickly." Here, "quickly" is an adverb of manner, and "very" is an adverb of intensity modifying "quickly".
- Entire Sentences: Some adverbs, called sentential adverbs, can modify a whole sentence or clause, often expressing a comment or opinion about the statement. Examples include: fortunately, unfortunately, clearly, obviously. For example, "Fortunately, we finished the work on time."
Recognizing the different types of adverbs helps in understanding the nuances of meaning in sentences.
Important Questions from Choose the Correct Word
Out of the four alternatives suggested, select the one which best expresses the following in Passive Voice:
You are teasing them.
Choose the correct Passive form of the sentence:
"This book will change your life".
Which of the following statements is incorrect?
Choose the option that serves as an Adjective Clause in the sentence:
The boy, whom you see bowling is my cousin.
What is the meaning of the phrase 'Feather in one's cap'?
