Adverb clauses are dependent clauses that give information about verbs, adverbs, and adjectives. An adverb clause tells when, where, why, how, to what extent, or how much about the word it modifies. They allow you to combine two sentences into one by using subordinating conjunctions. The most common conjunctions used in adverb clauses are listed below, according to the type of clause they introduce.
| Cause
as, because, since |
Comparison
as…as, than |
Place
where, wherever |
Manner as, as if, as though |
| Condition
if, provided that, unless, whether |
Concession
although, even though, whereas, while |
Purpose
in order that, so that |
Time after, as, before, once, since, till, until, when, while |
Adverb Clause Modifying Verbs
We left the bicycle. + We found it there.
→ We left the bicycle where we found it.
I could hardly hold my head up. + I was so sleepy.
→ I could hardly hold my head up because I was so sleepy.
Adverb Clause Modifying Adverbs
The other track stars ran fast. + Ferguson ran faster.
→ Ferguson ran faster than the other track stars did.
John sings well. + I sing equally well.
→ John sings as well as I do.
Adverb Clause Modifying Adjectives
The public library is bigger. + It used to be small.
→ The public library is bigger than it used to be.
The water in Aruba is blue. + The water in Jamaica is blue.
→ The water in Aruba is as blue as the water in Jamaica.
Identifying Adverb Clauses
Underline the adverb clause in each sentence. Circle the word it modifies.
- When I delivered the newspaper, I saw Mrs. Sampson at the window.
- Because that clerk was so helpful, I praised her to the store manager.
- You may play outside until it’s dark.
- Vince becomes nervous when he speaks in public.
- Please visit us whenever you are in the Chicago area.
Using Adverb Clauses
Combine the two sentences using a subordinating conjunction to form an adverb clause.
- The movie was just beginning. + We bought our tickets right then.
- She swims well. + Bob does not swim very well.
- Mother took a nap. + At the same time, Amy and I went cycling.
- Dinner is not ready yet. + Take a walk.
- You must keep promises. + You make promises.
Fix the Errors with Adverb Clauses
The following sentence(s) contain errors that can be corrected using adverb clauses.
- He runs everyday, he is addicted to exercise.
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- Call us then. When you get to town.
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- I can alter the maybe too big jacket.
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- Vince speaks in public, he becomes nervous.
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- That clerk was so helpful, I praised her to the store manager.
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Kayla | 2016
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