GED Reasoning Through Language ArtsLanguage Conventions and UsageMedium
A student is writing an essay and wants to use an adverb to modify a verb, indicating how an action is performed. Which sentence correctly uses an adverb to modify a verb?
- AShe sings beautiful.
- BThey perform good on stage.
- CHe writes exceptionally well.
- DThe new software runs quick.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. He writes exceptionally well.
Adverbs modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, often ending in '-ly'. Option C correctly uses 'exceptionally' (an adverb) to modify the verb 'writes', indicating how he writes. Options A, B, and D incorrectly use adjectives ('quick', 'beautiful', 'good') where adverbs ('quickly', 'beautifully', 'well') are needed to modify the verbs.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 'Beautiful' is an adjective; the adverb 'beautifully' is needed to modify the verb 'sings'.
- B. 'Good' is an adjective; the adverb 'well' is needed to modify the verb 'perform'.
- D. 'Quick' is an adjective; the adverb 'quickly' is needed to modify the verb 'runs'.
Adverb Modifying a Verb
An adverb is a word that modifies a verb, an adjective, or another adverb. When modifying a verb, an adverb describes how, when, where, or to what extent the action is performed.
- Often ends in -ly (e.g., quickly, softly).
- Answers questions like 'how?', 'when?', 'where?', 'to what extent?'.
- Should not be confused with adjectives, which modify nouns.
Memory trick: Adverbs add detail to verbs, like spices to a dish.