Adverb phrases

We have already seen that a group of words called an adjective phrase can serve the same purpose as an adjective. In the same way, an adverb phrase can does the work of an adverb.

Study the following examples.

    He spoke politely. (Here the adverb politely says something about the manner in which he spoke.)
    He spoke in a polite manner. (Here the adverb phrase ‘in a polite manner’ also says how he spoke.)

Thus we have seen that an adverb phrase modifies a verb just like an adverb does.

    It is available now.
    It is available at the moment.

In the pair of sentences given above, the adverb phrase ‘at the moment’ modifies the verb just like the adverb now does.

Definition

An adverb phrase is a group of words that serves the same purpose as an adverb. Like an adverb, an adverb phrase can also modify an adjective or another adverb.

Some adverbs and their equivalent adverb phrases are given below.

    Bravely (adverb) – in a brave manner (adverb phrase)
    Beautifully – in a beautiful manner / way / style
    Formerly – in former times / once upon a time
    Recently – just now or at a recent date
    Soon – before very long
    Here – on this spot
    Everywhere – in all places
    Now – at the moment