Focusing Adverbs

What are Focusing Adverbs?

Focusing Adverbs are used to draw attention or highlight a particular part of a clause.

Some examples include:

too, as well, at least, also, additionally, simply, merely, etc.

Examples:

"I might as well attend the party."

The phrase “as well” is a focusing adverb, highlighting the idea that I might go to the party, too.

"She is also smart."

The word “also” emphasizes that the subject (she) has the smart attribute in addition to others.

Focusing Adverbs According to Their Functions

Focusing adverbs are grouped by their specific uses. The common groups are:

1. Focusing Adverbs for Adding Information

also, as well, too, additionally

Example:
"Rod is coming to the camp, and Ryko is coming too."

2. Focusing Adverbs for Limiting Information

Used to emphasize information that presents or shows limits.

precisely, purely, simply, solely, alone, exactly, exclusively, just, merely, not only, only, but

Example:
"Just Rod is coming to the camp."
Meaning: Rod is coming to the camp but is not bringing anyone else.

3. Focusing Adverbs for Partially Limiting Information

Used to emphasize information that isn’t completely limited but partially limited.

chiefly, especially, mainly, mostly, notably, particularly, in particular, predominantly, primarily, at least, for the most part, by and large

Example:
"She wants everybody to come to the wedding, especially Ariadna."
Meaning: She wants everybody to come, but Ariadna is especially desired.