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Master English Grammar

Adverbs of Manner

Learn how to use adverbs of manner like quickly, slowly, carefully to describe how actions are performed.

What Are Adverbs of Manner?

Adverbs of manner describe how an action happens. They usually come after the verb or before the object.

Why Is This Important?

Using adverbs of manner correctly helps you provide more detail about actions, making your communication clearer and more precise.

Key Points

  • Most adverbs of manner end in -ly
    • She quickly finished her homework.
    • They happily danced together.
  • Some adverbs have the same form as adjectives
    • He drove fast (not fastly).
    • She works hard (not hardly).
  • Place adverbs of manner after the verb or before the object
    • He spoke clearly to the audience.
    • She placed the book carefully on the shelf.

Rules for Using Adverbs of Manner

  • Use adverbs of manner to describe how an action is performed.

    • She runs quickly.
    • They spoke politely.

  • Some adverbs do not follow the -ly rule.

    • He drove fast (not fastly).
    • She works hard (not hardly).

  • Place adverbs of manner after the verb or before the object.

    • She played beautifully.
    • He answered the question clearly.
ExampleAdverbUse
He drives carefully.CarefullyDescribes how he drives
She speaks fluently.FluentlyDescribes how she speaks
They work hard.HardDescribes how they work
He writes neatly.NeatlyDescribes how he writes

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with the creators of these videos. These are publicly available resources used to provide additional information on the topic.