Adverbs of certainty indicate how certain or sure we feel about an
action. They are usually placed before the main verb unless it is a
"be" verb (is/am/are). Adverbs of certainty go after "be"
verbs.
Adverbs of Certainty - Examples
· Probably - to be most likely; almost certain
· Definitely - in a definite manner
· Clearly - to be clear about something
· Certainly - to be sure of something
· Surely - to say with confidence
· Undoubtedly - to say without doubt
Adverbs of Certainty with "Be" Verbs
In sentences with "be" verbs (is, am, are), adverbs of certainty are
placed after the "be" verb.
· She is definitely unhappy at her job.
· He is undoubtedly a hard worker.
· The singers are certainly talented.
Adverbs of Certainty with Regular Verbs
With regular verbs, adverbs of certainty are placed before the verb.
· She surely looks like her mother.
· He probably passed the test.
· They clearly do not enjoy this class.
Adverbs of Certainty with Auxiliary Verbs
Adverbs of certainty can be used with other types of verbs such as auxiliary
verbs or helping verbs. Auxiliary verbs are used with main verbs. Most common
auxiliary verbs are "be, do, have" verbs.
· She is definitely going to college.
· He has certainly given much of his
time.
· We will probably eat at home.
Adverbs of Certainty at the Beginning of the Sentence
Sometimes adverbs of certainty can be placed at the beginning of a sentence.
· Certainly, you know what is going on.
· Probably, she has gotten lost.
· Undoubtedly, Michael Jordan was one of the greatest basketball players
of all time.
· Surely, someone is home with the child.
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