Clauses: Adverb Clauses: Hot Shots

Adverb Clauses: Hot Shots

Dependent clauses can function as adverbs. In this case, they are called adverb clauses. (Bet I didn't surprise you with that one.) An adverb clause is a dependent clause that describes a verb, adjective, or another adverb. As with regular old garden-variety adverbs, an adverb clause answers these questions:

• Where?
• Why?
• When?
• To what extent?
• Under what condition?
• In what manner?

All adverb clauses start with a subordinating conjunction. You reviewed some of the most common subordinating conjunctions in the previous section; here are a few more that you can use to link ideas and show how they are related:

• As long as
• As soon as
• As though
• In

Follow the Leader

You can place an adverb clause in the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence. Refer to these examples of adverb clauses as you fashion your own.

• Wherever she goes, she leaves a piece of luggage behind.

• The adverb clause “wherever she goes” modifies the verb “leaves.”

• Bob enjoyed the movie more than I did.

• The adverb clause “than I did” modifies the adverb “more.”

• Prince wanted to change his name because too many dogs answered when he was called.

• The adverb clause “because too many dogs answered when he was called” modifies the verb “wanted.”

Shape Up Your Sentences

You sweat for rock-hard abs, firm pecs, and a tight, uh, southern hemisphere. Why not give your sentences a good workout to make them as healthy as your bod? Adverb clauses can help you eliminate sentence flab. For instance:

Two sentences: Sean Connery had worked as both a bricklayer and a truck driver. This was before he became the original James Bond.

One sentence: Before he became the original James Bond, Sean Connery had worked as both a bricklayer and a truck driver.

Excerpted from The Complete Idiot's Guide to Grammar and Style © 2003 by Laurie E. Rozakis, Ph.D.. All rights reserved including the right of reproduction in whole or in part in any form. Used by arrangement with Alpha Books, a member of Penguin Group (USA) Inc.

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