What is an

Adverbial
Clause?
An adverbial clause is a group of words that functions as an adverb,
providing additional context and description to a sentence. Unlike other
clauses, adverbial clauses are always dependent and cannot stand alone.
Types of Adverbial Clauses
Manner Place Condition

Describes how an action takes Describes where an action Communicates the conditions
place. occurs. related to the main clause.
More Adverbial Clause Types
Reason Time Purpose

Tells the reason for the action Communicates when the Explains the reason for taking
in the main clause. action in the main clause a specific action.
takes place.
Adverbial Clauses of
Comparison

1 Comparison of Degree 2 Comparison of Manner

Compares the degree of the subject in the Compares how the action in the main
main clause. clause is performed.
Adverbial Clause of
Concession
Acknowledges a Modifying Factor
Adverbial clauses of concession admit a factor that modifies the main clause.
Adverbial Clause Placement

1 2 3

Beginning Middle End

Adverbial clauses can appear They can also be placed in Or they can be found at the
at the start of a sentence. the middle of a sentence. end of a sentence.
Adverbial Clause Length
1 Short Clauses 2 Long Clauses
Adverbial clauses can be quite brief. They can also be longer than the main
clause.
Adverbial Clause Benefits

Provide Context Offer Description

Adverbial clauses add rich detail to sentences. They can describe how, where, when, and why
actions occur.