#123 - Viewpoint and Commenting Adverbs - English Grammar

There are some adverbs which tell us about the speaker's viewpoint or opinion about an action. These adverbs are different from regular adverbs because they do not tell us how an action occurred. Viewpoint and commenting adverbs modify entire clauses instead of single verbs, adverbs, or adjectives. There is no real difference between viewpoint adverbs and commenting adverbs except where they are placed in a sentence.

Viewpoint Adverbs

Viewpoint adverbs indicate the speaker's viewpoint or opinion about something. They are usually placed at the beginning of the sentence.

Honestly, I don't know how it happened.
Seriously, we need to make a change.
Personally, I don't think he's the right person for the job.
Surprisingly, the house still in good condition.
Obviously, you don't know what you're doing.
Clearly, we have a problem.
Surely, you've seen this before.
Undoubtedly, he was the best president of the company.

Commenting Adverbs

Commenting adverbs indicate the speaker's comment about something. They are very similar to viewpoint adverbs and are often the same words. However, they are usually placed after a "be" verb or before a main verb.

He is definitely a smart guy.
She certainly knows what she wants.
This was obviously painted by a professional.
You are simply the best person for the job.
I honestly don't like her.
He seriously has a problem.
I personally don't want her to get the job.
He clearly has no clue.