Today we will learn about the adverbs of probability.
Before that, we’ll see what is an adverb?
The word adverb, which modifies the meaning of a verb, an adjective or another adverb.
Lets see some examples of adverb:-
- Jerry runs fast.
In the above sentence fast is an adverb and it modifies the verb run. - Riya is very intelligent.
In the above sentence Very modifies the adjective intelligent. - He speaks English quite well .
Here quiet modifies the adverb well,
What are Adverbs of probability?
Adverbs of probability are used to say how sure you are about things. Some of the common adverbs of probability are certainly, definitely, probably, maybe, perhaps and possibly. Certainly and definitely is used to say that there is a 99 to 100% chance for a thing to happen. It is used to say that it is more likely for a thing to happen that is about 75%. Maybe, perhaps, possibly or used to say that there are only 50 percent chance for a thing to happen.
Now, we will see where to place the adverbs of probability in a sentence:-
probability comes before the main verb.
| Certainly Definitely possibly probably | + | Main verb |
Now, we will see where to place the adverbs of probability in a sentence.
- He certainly wanted to quit the job.
- She definitely deserves a loud Applause.
- They probably had a lot to discuss.
In all these sentences we can see that the adverb of probability is placed before the main verb.
When a ‘Be’ form verb functions as a main verb in a sentence, then the adverbs of probability should be placed after the ‘Be’ form verb.
Lets see some examples:-
- Our team is probably the best.
- See was definitely not to be blamed.
- They were possibly upset by the result.
In all these sentences we can see that the adverb of probability is placed after the Be form verb.
If we have an auxiliary verb and a main verb, then the adverbs of probability should be placed in between the auxiliary verb and the main verb.
Lets see some examples:-
- He is certainly coming to the party.
- This experience should definitely help you.
- He will probably study on Sundays.
In all these sentences we can see that the adverb of probability is placed between the auxiliary verb and the main verb.
It is quite common to use maybe and perhaps in the beginning of the sentence.
For example:-
- Maybe she will wait for me.
- Perhaps the weather will be fine.
We can also place the other adverbs of probability in the beginning of the sentence for giving more emphasis.
Some important exercises:-
- _____ you will find a solution.
- I am _____ coming to your party.
- It is _____ that the bus does not arrive.
- _____ we can teach him Spanish.
- _____they can come to my house.
She will _____ come to the party. - _____ we will go out tonight.
- cannot _____ tell you what he will give you for your birthday.
- They are _____ working on a project.
- I _____ hope I can go to Australia soon.
- She _____ won’t forget your birthday.
- They _____ believe they are going to fail the exam.
