The Communicative Grammar of English Workbook - Edward Woods, Rudy Coppieters 2002

7.18. Gradable words and degree 1
Unit seven. Adverbs, adverbials and prepositions

Sections 216-218

Degree only applies to gradable words: scale words indicate a relative position on a scale (large, small), while limit words indicate the end-point of a scale (black, white).

Degree expressions with adjective scale words can be different from those used with verb scale words, especially when indicating extreme positions (very tall vs rain (very) much) or intensifying the meaning slightly (pretty hard vs increase considerably).

Downtoners tend to be the same (slightly uncomfortable/fall slightly).

Degree adverbs with limit words are usually the same whether used with adjectives or with verbs

(completely black/disagree completely).

Task one **

Insert an acceptable degree expression from the set listed below. (A) stands for ’indicating extreme position’, (B) for ’intensifying slightly’ and (C) for ’toning down’.

1. The situation in the border area is getting desperate. (B)

2. High Street spending has increased over the last two months. (B)

3. Teachers are complaining about class sizes these days. (A)

4. In her early nineties now, Mrs Wilson is beginning to look frail. (A)

5. Ricky’s mood swings are making me feel uncomfortable. (C)

6. On the whole, I like these after-dinner speeches. (B)

7. Careful, that wooden chest is heavy! (B)

8. Aren’t you getting worried about Mandy’s recent behaviour? (C)

9. Teenagers tend to admire pop stars. (A)

10. I think we should reword this letter. (C)

11. We were given an accurate description of the situation. (B)

12. Dear Kenny, I’m looking forward to your visit. (A)

Task two *

Complete the following sentences, using the more (or most) appropriate of the degree expressions in brackets.

1. I felt ... uneasy at the thought of meeting my rival. (considerably; rather)

2. I remember Aunt Dolly’s words ... . (exactly; very much)

3. Henry’s work is ... sentimental for my taste. (a lot; too)

4. Smoking on these premises is ... forbidden. (rather; strictly)

5. Our victory has proved our enemies ... wrong. (practically; utterly)

6. Somebody who works ... is often described as a workaholic. (a great deal; considerably)

7. Jack told me he wasn’t ... bored. (absolutely; in the least)

8. The original edition is still useful as it has only been modified ... . (slightly; virtually)

9. People who drink too much may have to stop working ... . (altogether; quite)

10. Walking on the surface of the sun is ... impossible. (nearly; quite)

11. I was ... surprised when I heard these rumours. (a little; a great deal)

12. The idea that ... any anachronism can be rescued is ... popular. (almost; completely; extremely)