An exclamatory adverb is a word that introduces an exclamatory sentence, expressing surprise, strong emotion, or emphasis.
Based on the provided reference, exclamatory adverbs typically serve as the headers of direct or indirect exclamatory sentences. They are distinct from regular adverbs which modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. Instead, they function structurally to initiate an exclamation.
Relationship with Interrogative Adverbs
The reference also highlights that exclamatory adverbs have a close relationship with interrogative adverbs, with some overlap between the two categories. Words like how and what are common examples that can function as both interrogative adverbs (asking a question) and exclamatory adverbs (introducing an exclamation).
Consider these examples:
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Interrogative: How did you do that? (Asks about the manner)
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Exclamatory: How beautiful she is! (Expresses strong feeling about beauty)
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Interrogative: What time is it? (Asks about the time - 'what' here functions more like a determiner, but the word form is shared)
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Exclamatory: What a mess! (Expresses strong feeling about the mess)
While 'what' often functions as a determiner or pronoun in exclamations (What a day!, What nonsense!), when it introduces an exclamatory clause modifying a noun or adjective indirectly (What brilliant writing!), it can be seen as having an exclamatory function related to degree, similar to how. However, how is the more typical example cited as an exclamatory adverb proper, focusing on the degree or manner in an exclamation.
Key Characteristics
- They initiate exclamatory sentences or clauses.
- They introduce phrases that express strong feeling or surprise.
- They often overlap in form with interrogative adverbs.
| Type | Function | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Exclamatory Adverb | Introduces an exclamation, expresses emotion | How wonderful! |
| Interrogative Adverb | Asks a question about manner, place, time, degree | How did you get here? |
Understanding exclamatory adverbs helps in recognizing the structure and emotional intent behind exclamatory sentences. They set the tone for the strong feeling conveyed by the statement.
