Sentence Adverb: Definition, Examples & Rules | English Grammar
Last Updated: 01 Jul, 2025
Welcome! In this lesson, you'll learn all about Sentence Adverbs in English grammar. We'll cover what they are, how to use them, and why they're important. You'll find real-life examples, a quick quiz, and pro tips to help you master this essential grammar topic.
What is a Sentence Adverb?
Sentence Adverb Definition: A sentence adverb is a word or phrase that modifies the whole sentence, expressing the speaker's attitude, opinion, or comment about what is being said. Common sentence adverbs include fortunately, unfortunately, honestly, clearly, obviously, hopefully, and frankly.
Why are Sentence Adverbs Important? They help us show our feelings, opinions, or judgments about the entire statement, not just a single verb or action.
Function in Grammar
Sentence adverbs usually appear at the beginning of a sentence and modify the whole sentence, not just a single word. They express the speaker's attitude, such as certainty, doubt, surprise, or opinion. For example:
- Fortunately, we arrived on time.
- Honestly, I don't like broccoli.
- Clearly, he made a mistake.
- Hopefully, it won't rain tomorrow.
Sentence Adverb vs Regular Adverb
| Sentence Adverb | Regular Adverb |
|---|---|
| Honestly, I don't know. | She spoke honestly. |
| Fortunately, we won. | He was fortunately placed. |
| Clearly, you are right. | She explained the answer clearly. |
| Hopefully, it will be sunny. | He waited hopefully. |
A sentence adverb modifies the whole sentence, while a regular adverb modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb.
📌 Sentence Adverb Challenge!
Can you spot the sentence adverbs in these sentences?
- Frankly, I disagree with you.
- Hopefully, we will win the game.
- Obviously, he forgot his homework.
Show Answers
- Frankly
- Hopefully
- Obviously
Examples of Sentence Adverbs in Sentences
- Fortunately, we finished the project on time.
- Honestly, I didn't expect that result.
- Clearly, this is a mistake.
- Hopefully, the weather will be nice.
- Frankly, I don't care.
- Surprisingly, he passed the test.
- Regrettably, we missed the bus.
- Obviously, she is the best player.
- Seriously, you need to try this!
- Thankfully, everyone is safe.
Notice how each sentence adverb expresses the speaker's attitude about the whole sentence.
List of Common Sentence Adverbs
- fortunately
- unfortunately
- honestly
- clearly
- obviously
- hopefully
- frankly
- surprisingly
- regrettably
- seriously
- thankfully
- undoubtedly
- apparently
- interestingly
- sadly
Sentence Adverb Usage
| Adverb | Attitude/Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| fortunately | Good luck or positive outcome | Fortunately, we finished on time. |
| honestly | Truthfulness | Honestly, I don't know. |
| clearly | Obviousness | Clearly, he made a mistake. |
| hopefully | Hope or wish | Hopefully, it won't rain. |
Sentence adverbs show the speaker's attitude or comment about the whole sentence.
Special Rules and Notes
- Placement: Sentence adverbs usually come at the beginning of a sentence, but can also appear in the middle or end for emphasis.
- Comma: Use a comma after a sentence adverb at the beginning of a sentence.
- Attitude: Choose the sentence adverb that best expresses your attitude or opinion.
- Not all -ly adverbs: Not every adverb ending in -ly is a sentence adverb. Some only modify verbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sentence adverb?
A sentence adverb is a word that modifies the whole sentence, expressing the speaker's attitude, opinion, or comment about what is being said. Examples include fortunately, honestly, clearly, obviously, hopefully, and frankly.
Where do sentence adverbs go in a sentence?
Sentence adverbs usually appear at the beginning of a sentence and are followed by a comma. They can also appear in the middle or end for emphasis.
What are some examples of sentence adverbs?
Common sentence adverbs include: fortunately, unfortunately, honestly, clearly, obviously, hopefully, frankly, surprisingly, regrettably, seriously, thankfully, undoubtedly, apparently, interestingly, and sadly.
What is the difference between a sentence adverb and a regular adverb?
A sentence adverb modifies the whole sentence and expresses attitude (Honestly, I don't know), while a regular adverb modifies specific words like verbs (She spoke honestly).
Do you need a comma with sentence adverbs?
Yes, when a sentence adverb appears at the beginning of a sentence, it should be followed by a comma. For example: "Fortunately, we arrived on time."
What attitudes do sentence adverbs express?
Sentence adverbs can express various attitudes: certainty (clearly, obviously), hope (hopefully), honesty (frankly, honestly), luck (fortunately, unfortunately), and surprise (surprisingly).
Conclusion
Sentence adverbs help you express your feelings, opinions, and attitudes about what you say. Practice using them to make your writing and speaking more expressive and interesting!