Syntax

Word order: adverbs

Adverbs and adverbial phrases can go in different positions in the sentence: at the beginning, in the middle, and at the end.

• Yesterday I was late for work.
• David usually gets here at 8:00.
• The car came round the corner quickly.

At the beginning (initial position)

Adverbs which connect different sentences usually go here:

• It was late. Therefore, we took a taxi.

Time expressions commonly go in the initial position.

• Yesterday I was late for work.

Mid-position

Adverbs of certainty and probability, plus adverbs of frequency, commonly go here:

• It will probably rain tomorrow.
• David usually gets here at 8:00.

Adverbs of degree also commonly go in mid-position.

• I really like rock and roll.
• I very much enjoy skiing.

Verb + object

We do not put adverbs between the verb and its object.

• I really like rock and roll.
  NOT: I like really rock and roll.
• She often drinks coffee.
  NOT: She drinks often coffee.

Final position

Adverbs of manner, place and time often go in the end position.

• The car came round the corner quickly.
• The children ran outside.
• I was late for work yesterday.

Some adverbs of degree (but not really) can also go in the end position.

• I enjoy skiing very much.
• I don't like football much.
• I don't like football at all.
  NOT: I like rock and roll really.