Definition

This word describes something that is connected to or functions like an adverb, which is a part of speech that modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs.

Example

In the sentence, she quickly ran to the store, 'quickly' is an adverbial that modifies the verb 'ran'.

Conversation

I was reading about grammar, and I came across the term adverbial.

Oh, that's interesting! What does it mean exactly?

It refers to words or phrases that function like an adverb in a sentence.

Got it! So, it helps to describe how an action is performed.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A part of a sentence that describes how, when, where, or why something happens, often providing additional information about the verb.

Example

In the sentence 'She sings beautifully', 'beautifully' is an adverbial that describes how she sings.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of an adverbial?

Yeah, isn't it a type of phrase that modifies a verb?

Exactly! It can add more detail to the action.

Root Explanation

Adverbial → It is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "verbum" (meaning word) and the suffix "-ial" (meaning relating to). The word "adverbial" refers to something that relates to or modifies a verb, essentially a word that adds information to a verb.

Memory Tip

Think of 'to' ('ad-') and 'word' ('verbum') to remember that 'adverbial' relates to words that modify verbs.

Visually Confused Words