Adverbs Of Certainty

Adverbs of certainty express how certain or sure we feel about an action or event.

Common examples are: certainly, definitely, probably, undoubtedly, clearly, obviously etc.

• She will definitely come.
• He was clearly the winner.
• She is probably working late.

Position of adverbs of certainty

Adverbs of certainty usually go in mid position. They are placed after auxiliary verbs and before other verbs. When there are two or more auxiliaries, the adverb goes after the first.

• He is undoubtedly a great leader. (is/am/are/was/were + adverb)
• She will probably come. (auxiliary verb + adverb + main verb)
• It will certainly rain this evening. (auxiliary verb + adverb + main verb)
• I certainly feel better today. (adverb + main verb)
• You have definitely been working too hard. (first auxiliary + adverb + second auxiliary + other verb)

Exceptions

Perhaps and maybe are exceptions to this rule. They usually go at the beginning of a clause.

• Perhaps she will come.
• Maybe you are right.

Worksheet

Rewrite the following sentences by placing the adverb of certainty in the correct place.

1. She is the most suitable candidate for this position. (undoubtedly)
2. She is working late. (Perhaps)
3. I am mistaken. (Maybe)
4. You have heard about him. (probably)
5. You have been a great help for me. (definitely)
6. They will win the championship. (certainly)
7. She will come if you invite her. (definitely)
8. You are not wearing that coat to work. (surely)
9. They are hiding something from us. (obviously)
10. The teacher explained the concepts. (clearly)

Answers

1. She is definitely the most suitable candidate for this position.
2. Perhaps she is working late.
3. Maybe I am mistaken.
4. You have probably heard about him.
5. You have definitely been a great help for me.
6. They will certainly win the championship.
7. She will definitely come if you invite her.
8. Surely you are not wearing that coat to work.
9. They are obviously hiding something from us.
10. The teacher clearly explained the concepts. / The teacher explained the concepts clearly.