An adverbial phrase is a group of words that functions as an adverb in a sentence, providing additional information about the action of a verb. Adverbial phrases often answer questions such as how, when, where, why, or to what degree an action takes place. These phrases can modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, adding detail and nuance to the sentence.
Here are a few examples of adverbial phrases:
- Example: He walked to the store.
The adverbial phrase “to the store” answers the question “where” and modifies the verb “walked.” - Example: She sang with joy.
The adverbial phrase “with joy” answers the question “how” and modifies the verb “sang.” - Example: They will meet at the park tomorrow.
The adverbial phrase “at the park tomorrow” answers the questions “where” and “when” and modifies the verb “will meet.” - Example: The car moved slowly up the hill.
The adverbial phrase “up the hill” answers the question “where” and modifies the verb “moved slowly.”
Adverbial phrases can include prepositional, infinitive, participial, or other types of phrases that function as adverbs. They add specificity and detail to an action’s manner, place, time, or circumstances in a sentence.