Power TOEFL

TOEFL practice tests and AI study tools.

Adverbs

Adverb placement, formation, and the adjective vs adverb distinction tested in TOEFL.

Adverbs modify verbs, adjectives, other adverbs, or entire sentences.

Formation: Most adverbs are formed by adding -ly to adjectives:

  • quick → quickly, significant → significantly, careful → carefully

    • Position:

  • Before adjectives: *extremely* important
  • Before/after verbs: She *quickly* responded / She responded *quickly*
  • Sentence beginning: *Unfortunately*, the event was canceled.

    • Key TOEFL Distinction: Adjective vs Adverb

  • The project was completed successful ❌
  • The project was completed successfully ✓
  • She is a highly qualified candidate. (adverb modifies adjective)

    • Examples

    TOEFL Tip:

    If the blank modifies a verb or adjective, you need an adverb (-ly form).