Writing Tips for Adverbs

One of the most powerful writing tips you can apply relates to adverbs. Adverbs are the words that you use to describe verbs when the verb itself isn’t descriptive enough for you. You probably know adverbs as the words that end in -ly. When used properly, an adverb adds value to the sentence (specifically to the word it modifies). When it isn’t used properly, it sounds like poor writing.

Here is an example:

Johnny yelled loudly.

There are many writers who over use adverbs. This can frustrate your readers. Let’s look at the previous example. The adverb loudly modifies the word yelled. When used properly, the adverb will give the reader added understanding about the word that he would not have had otherwise. However, in this particular example, does the adverb loudly really tell us anything that the world yelled didn’t already communicate? No. So, in this case its poorly used. A stronger sentence would be:

Johnny yelled.

Using an adverb haphazardly makes your writing look lazy. Let’s look at an example of when it might be a good idea to use an adverb. Consider the following sentence:

Suz finished the test quickly.

What does the adverb quickly tell you about how Suz finished the test? Would the meaning change if we took out the adverb? Would the reader’s understanding change? Yes. So, in this case, the adverb gives us added understanding. What if we were to change the adverb from quickly to another word. Change it out for the word sadly, or happily, or slowly, or regretfully. Each of these adverbs add a different meaning to the sentence. The author will choose the proper word to convey his message. What adverb would you want to avoid using in this sentence? You probably guessed it – finally. To use the adverb finally would be redundant. You get the idea.

Pay attention to the verbs you choose. If you choose the right verb, you often wont need an adverb. However, in the event that you do need an adverb, pay attention to your adverbs and your readers will keep reading.

Happy writing!

Justin