Finding the Right Adverb for 'Considered'

The question asks us to select an appropriate adverb to replace the phrase "in brief" in the sentence: "We considered in brief the long term solution to the problem." We need an adverb that can effectively modify the verb "considered," indicating how the consideration took place.

Understanding Adverbs

Adverbs are words that modify verbs, adjectives, other adverbs, or sometimes entire sentences. They often answer questions like how, when, where, or to what extent something is done.

• Adverbs modifying verbs typically describe the manner, time, or place of the action.
• Examples: quickly (manner), yesterday (time), here (place).

Analyzing the Sentence: "We considered in brief the long term solution..."

In this sentence, "considered" is the verb. The phrase "in brief" functions like an adverbial phrase, telling us *how* the solution was considered. It means the consideration was done in a concise or short manner.

We are looking for a single adverb that can convey this meaning and grammatically fit into the sentence to modify "considered".

Evaluating the Options for Adverbial Modification

Let's look at the given options and determine if they are suitable adverbs that can replace "in brief" and modify the verb "considered":

1. briefly: This word is an adverb. It means "for a short time" or "in a few words; concisely". This meaning aligns perfectly with the original phrase "in brief" and can modify the verb "considered" to indicate the manner of consideration (done concisely or for a short time).
2. briefless: This word is an adjective. It typically describes a barrister who has no 'briefs' or cases. It cannot function as an adverb modifying a verb like "considered".
3. brief: This word is commonly used as an adjective (meaning short in duration or extent) or a noun (like a summary or instructions). It cannot function as an adverb modifying "considered" in this context. While "in brief" is an adverbial phrase derived from "brief", "brief" alone is not an adverb here.
4. briefness: This word is a noun, meaning the quality of being brief. Nouns cannot modify verbs.

Based on the analysis, the only option that is an adverb and accurately replaces the meaning and function of "in brief" to modify the verb "considered" is "briefly".

Selecting the Appropriate Adverb

Replacing "in brief" with "briefly", the sentence becomes: "We considered briefly the long term solution to the problem." This sentence is grammatically correct and retains the intended meaning.

Therefore, the appropriate adverb is "briefly".

Revision Table: Adverb Replacement

This table summarizes why 'briefly' is the correct choice for replacing 'in brief' when modifying the verb 'considered'.

Additional Information: Adverbs and Adverbial Phrases

Adverbial phrases are groups of two or more words that function like an adverb, modifying a verb, adjective, or other adverb. "In brief" is an example of an adverbial phrase. Many adverbial phrases can be replaced by a single adverb that carries a similar meaning.

• Example Adverbial Phrase: He spoke in a loud voice.
• Equivalent Adverb: He spoke loudly.
• Example Adverbial Phrase: She arrived at noon.
• Equivalent Adverb: She arrived then.

Understanding the function of phrases and how they can sometimes be replaced by single words (like adverbs) is important for improving sentence conciseness and variety.