Adverb Clauses Created by Kathryn Reilly

What is an Adverb Clause? An adverb clause is a dependant clause modifying a verb. An adverb clause may precede or follow the verb it modifies. Adverb clauses are the fashion accessories to a good sentence. Just as a person wouldn’t just wear a watch or a necklace, a sentence can’t just be an adverbial clause.

Quick Adverb Review Adverbs answer the questions – Where? – When? – Why? – Under what conditions? An adverb is a modifier that describes a verb. – The werewolf howled loudly. How did the werewolf howl? Loudly. Many adverbs end in –ly, but not all. – The werewolf met with the vampire yesterday. When did the meeting happen? Yesterday.

Adverb Clauses Adverb clauses are groups of words containing a subject and verb that cannot stand on their own as a complete sentence; they must be connected to an independent clause. Example: The werewolf and vampire met before the truce was broken.

Creating an Adverb Clause Adverb clauses always describe a verb. – Both parties brokered a new truce. Why did they broker a new truce? – Both parties brokered a new truce so they could remain hidden from the human world. When did they broker a new truce? – Both parties brokered a new truce after the clock struck 3 a.m. – After the clock struck 3 a.m., both parties brokered a new truce. Note: Adverb clauses may precede or follow the verb they modify.

Recognizing Adverb Clauses Adverbial clauses often begin with a subordinating conjunction: – Although – After – Before – Because – Since – So – While This is only a partial list!

Adverb Clause Review An adverb clause is a dependent clause. An adverb clause modifies (or describes) the verb in a sentence. An adverb clause will answer the questions When? Where? Why? and Under what conditions? in relation to the verb.