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

7.19. Gradable words and degree 2
Unit seven. Adverbs, adverbials and prepositions

Sections 219-221

Comparative adjectives and adverbs are modified by degree words used as adverbials: much healthier. Superlatives can be intensified by degree adverbs like altogether and very: altogether the best show/the very best show.

The adverbial very much is often to be preferred to much: I liked it very much.

The degree adverbs entirely, fairly and quite tend to suggest a positive meaning, while completely, rather, utterly and a bit/little often suggest a negative one: fairly warm vs rather warm.

Task one **

Complete the following sentences, adding degree expressions which indicate ’extreme position on the scale’.

1. A giraffe’s legs are ... longer than an antelope’s.

2. Our success ... depends on your willingness to cooperate.

3. We offer ... the highest quality in dental care.

4. Some laboratories are using the ... latest cloning techniques.

5. I like these Beethoven sonatas ... .

6. Dad looks ... more relaxed these days.

7. Ignoring the problem would be the ... worst solution.

8. Well, mate, I’ve done ... better than you this time, eh?

9. This studio has produced ... the most enchanting pictures.

10. I know you must be ... busy but I would ... welcome a visit from you.

Task two **

Add an appropriate degree adverb to a gradable element in the following sentences. (A) stands for ’indicating extreme position’, (B) for ’intensifying slightly’ and (C) for ’toning down’.

1. Jimmy looked pathetic standing in the rain outside. (B)

2. Joan seemed at ease in this new environment. (A)

3. It’s a pleasant walk now that the heather is in full bloom. (B)

4. The information we received was accurate. (B)

5. The next of kin were devastated by the news. (A)

6. I’m not convinced that this is the ideal approach. (A)

7. For thirty years Mr Lee made an easy living as a fisherman. (B)

8. I’ve been worried about my health lately. (C)

9. What you were saying is beside the point. (A)

10. It would be foolish to support such a stupid idea. (A)