Is the word an adjective or adverb?

Definition: An adjective is a word that describes or modifies a noun or pronoun. It tells us more about a person, place, thing, or idea.

Example:

  • The blue sky. (Here, “blue” is an adjective describing the noun “sky.”)
  • She is a smart student. (Here, “smart” is an adjective describing the noun “student.”)

Definition: An adverb is a word that describes or modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb. It tells us how, when, where, how much, or to what extent.

Example:

  • She sings beautifully. (Here, “beautifully” is an adverb describing how she sings.)
  • He is very tall. (Here, “very” is an adverb describing the adjective “tall.”)

Adjectives describe nouns and pronouns (Who or what?).

Example: The tall building.

Adverbs describe verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs (How? When? Where? How much?).

Example: He runs quickly.


Adjective Indicators: Look for words that describe nouns or pronouns (e.g., colors, sizes, shapes, feelings).

Adverb Indicators: Look for words that describe verbs (actions), adjectives (qualities), or other adverbs (extent or degree). Many adverbs end in -ly, but not all.

Example: “She spoke loudly.” (Loudly describes how she spoke, so it’s an adverb.)

Example: “The dog is quick.” (Quick describes the dog, so it’s an adjective.)


Adjectives often end in -ful, -less, -ous, -ic, etc.

Example: Beautiful, Careless, Famous, Organic.

Adverbs often end in -ly.

Example: Quickly, Carefully, Happily, Easily.


“The boy ran fast.” (Adverb, modifying the verb “ran.”)

“The tall building is old.” (Adjective, modifying the noun “building.”)

“She answered the question correctly.” (Adverb, modifying the verb “answered.”)

“He is extremely smart.” (Adverb, modifying the adjective “smart.”)