Focusing Adverbs
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Focusing adverbs point to a particular part of a clause.
Most common examples are: also, just, even, only, mainly, mostly, either, neither etc.
Position
As focusing adverbs point to a particular part of a sentence, the meaning conveyed often depends upon their position. It is best to place them in front of and next to the word or words modified by them.
Compare:
- Only John helped me to buy the house. (= Only John and no
one else helped me.)
- John only helped me to buy the house. (= John helped me to
buy the house, but didn't actually buy it for me.)
Exceptions
Too and as well are exceptions to this rule. They normally go in end position.
- She not only speaks English; she speaks French as well.
- He not only sings; he plays the piano too.
Sections in this article
Introduction To Adverbs
Formation of Adverbs
Adjectives or Adverbs - Confusing
Cases
Adverbs of Certainty
Adverbs of Degree
Adverbs of Indefinite
Frequency
Adverbs of Manner
Adverbs of Place
Adverbs of Time and Definite
Frequency
Focusing Adverbs
Sections in this article
Exclamations
Exclamations exercise
Exclamations: common errors
Common mistakes with pronouns - Part 2
Common errors with adjectives - part 1
Common errors with adjectives - part 2