While adjectives modify nouns, adverbs modify verbs.
A quick online search will list a few hundred sites that define 'adverb'. As you read through a few definitions you will find a common theme. "-ly".
Structure: Noun + Verb + Adverb
Example: Jon ran quickly.
While reading the numerous articles online you will find two primary groups: (1) Use Adverbs, and (2) Don't Use Adverbs. Though there is a third group: Use Adverbs When Needed. If you take the time to read the articles I have listed below you will find this to be true.
The third group exists because adverbs are used naturally in conversation with the realization that too many adverbs causes the writer to tell the story rather than show the story.
When you write your story remember these things: a story will make the reader forget the real world, and the reader is deciding whether to turn the page.
As an author the focus is to write in a manner that is pleasing to your audience. Concise and meaningful sentences in your story are powerful. Lesson: Don't be a lazy writer. Find the appropriate words to express your idea.
From what I read online, here are some of the 'warnings' about using adverbs:
1. Don't use adverbs in dialogue tags.
2. Don't use empty or redundant modifiers.
Remember the lesson above? Don't be a lazy writer. Have purpose.
Instead of saying: Jon ran quickly towards the bus.
Say: Jon chased the bus.
Simple. Concise. Powerful.
Want to Read More?
A quick online search will list a few hundred sites that define 'adverb'. As you read through a few definitions you will find a common theme. "-ly".
Structure: Noun + Verb + Adverb
Example: Jon ran quickly.
While reading the numerous articles online you will find two primary groups: (1) Use Adverbs, and (2) Don't Use Adverbs. Though there is a third group: Use Adverbs When Needed. If you take the time to read the articles I have listed below you will find this to be true.
The third group exists because adverbs are used naturally in conversation with the realization that too many adverbs causes the writer to tell the story rather than show the story.
When you write your story remember these things: a story will make the reader forget the real world, and the reader is deciding whether to turn the page.
As an author the focus is to write in a manner that is pleasing to your audience. Concise and meaningful sentences in your story are powerful. Lesson: Don't be a lazy writer. Find the appropriate words to express your idea.
From what I read online, here are some of the 'warnings' about using adverbs:
1. Don't use adverbs in dialogue tags.
2. Don't use empty or redundant modifiers.
Remember the lesson above? Don't be a lazy writer. Have purpose.
Instead of saying: Jon ran quickly towards the bus.
Say: Jon chased the bus.
Simple. Concise. Powerful.
Want to Read More?
- Definition
- Creating Lean but Descriptive Prose
- Descriptive Verbs: 7 Tips for Avoiding Weak Adverbs
- Flat Adverbs are Flat-Out Useful
- Fundamentals of Fiction: Avoid Those Beginners' Blunders
- How to Make Adverbs Work for You
- Subverting Adverbs and Cliches
- The "Avoid Adverbs" Rule is (Very) Wrong
- What About Adverbs
- Why No Adverbs
- Writing Basics: How to Use Adverbs
- Writing Rules and Fantasy: Adverbs
- Writing Tips: Abolish the Adverbs
