Adverbs of Time| Definition, Use, Examples
Adverbs of Time are Adverbs that modify or describe the time at which an action or event occurs. They can indicate when an action happens, for how long, or how often. These adverbs help to add clarity and specificity to a sentence and can help to paint a clearer picture of events and actions that a Noun or Pronoun performs in relation to time. Following are some examples of Adverbs of Time.
“Now” As An Adverb of Time
Etymologically, “now” can be traced back to the Old English word “nu,” which means “at the present time.” As an adverb of time, “now” is used to refer to the current moment or present time. It can also be used to indicate an immediate action or response.
Examples of “Now” As An Adverb of Time
Following are some examples of “Now” as an Adverb of Time.
- I am busy with work now, but I can talk to you later.
- Please be quiet, I am trying to focus on my task now.
- I’m not hungry now, but I might be later.
- They are now living in a new apartment in the city.
- I’m glad I finished my homework now, so I can relax for the rest of the evening.
“Then” As An Adverb of Time
“Then” comes from the Old English word “þanne,” which means “at that time.” As an adverb of time, “then” is used to indicate a time that is subsequent to the present moment or a previously mentioned time. It can also be used to show a consequence or a sequence of events.
Examples of “Then” As An Adverb of Time
Following are some examples of “Then” as an Adverb of Time.
- I used to love going to the beach as a child, but then I developed a fear of swimming.
- She finished her college degree and then started working for a software company.
- I was at the grocery store earlier, but then I realized I left my wallet at home.
- He worked hard to save money for his trip, and then he traveled around Europe for two months.
- I used to eat fast food all the time, but then I started cooking more meals at home.
“Soon” As An Adverb of Time
“Soon” comes from the Old English word “sona,” which means “immediately” or “promptly.” As an adverb of time, “soon” refers to a time that is approaching quickly or in the near future. It can also be used to indicate an expectation or anticipation of something happening in the not-too-distant future.
Examples of “Soon” As An Adverb of Time
Following are some examples of “Soon” as an Adverb of Time.
- The concert is starting soon, so we should leave now to avoid traffic.
- The restaurant will be closing soon, so we need to order quickly.
- They will be home soon, so we should get dinner ready.
- I have an appointment with the doctor soon, so I need to leave soon.
- We are expecting rain soon, so we need to bring in the patio furniture.
“Yesterday” As An Adverb of Time
“Yesterday” comes from the Old English word “geostran dæg,” which means “yester day” or “the day before today.” As an adverb of time, “yesterday” refers to the day before the present day or the previous day. It can also be used to describe something that happened in the past, often in a nostalgic or reflective way.
Examples of “Yesterday” As An Adverb of Time
Following are some examples of “Yesterday” as an Adverb of Time.
- I saw an old friend yesterday, and we caught up on old times.
- He finished his project yesterday and submitted it to his professor.
- Yesterday, I went for a walk in the park and enjoyed the sunshine.
- She was feeling sick yesterday, so she stayed home from work.
- I forgot my phone charger at the office yesterday, so I had to buy a new one today.
“Today” As An Adverb of Time
“Today” comes from the Old English word “todæg,” which means “on (this) day.” As an adverb of time, “today” refers to the current day or the day in which something is happening. It can also be used to describe something that is relevant or topical at the present time.
Examples of “Today” As An Adverb of Time
Following are some examples of “Today” as an Adverb of Time.
- I woke up early today to finish some work before my meeting.
- Today, I am going to try a new recipe for dinner.
- She is feeling better today and is able to go back to work.
- I went to the gym today and had a great workout.
- Today is a beautiful day, so I am going to spend some time outside.
“Tonight” As An Adverb of Time
“Tonight” is a combination of the Old English words “to” and “niht,” meaning “to (the) night.” As an adverb of time, “tonight” refers to the present or approaching evening, typically after sunset. It can also be used to describe events or activities that are happening or scheduled to happen in the evening hours.
Examples of “Tonight” As An Adverb of Time
Following are some examples of “Tonight” as an Adverb of Time.
- We are going to the movies tonight to see the new release.
- I have a dinner reservation at the restaurant tonight.
- Tonight’s game is going to be a close one, I can feel it.
- They are having a party tonight, and we are all invited.
- I have to work late tonight, so I won’t be able to make it to the gym.
“Tomorrow” As An Adverb of Time
“Tomorrow” comes from the Old English word “tō morgenne,” which means “on (the) morning.” As an adverb of time, “tomorrow” refers to the day immediately following the present day. It can also be used to describe events or plans that are scheduled to happen on the next day or in the near future.
Examples of “tomorrow” As An Adverb of Time
Following are some examples of “Tomorrow” as an Adverb of Time.
- I have an early meeting tomorrow, so I need to go to bed early tonight.
- Tomorrow is a holiday, so I don’t have to go to work.
- She is flying to New York tomorrow for a business trip.
- I am going to start my new exercise routine tomorrow.
- We are having guests over for dinner tomorrow, so we need to prepare the meal tonight.
“Always” As An Adverb of Time
“Always” comes from the Old English words “ealne weg,” which means “all the way.” As an adverb of time, “always” refers to every instance of a particular action or state. It can also indicate a continuous or unchanging condition or behavior, without exception, over a long period of time.
Examples of “Always” As An Adverb of Time
Following are some examples of “Always” as an Adverb of Time.
- She always arrives early for her appointments to avoid being late.
- He always wears a helmet when he rides his bike for safety.
- They always take a walk after dinner to get some exercise.
- I always have my coffee with cream and sugar in the morning.
- She always puts her phone on silent during meetings to avoid disruptions.
“Never” As An Adverb of Time
“Never” comes from the Old English word “nǣfre,” which means “not ever.” As an adverb of time, “never” refers to no time or not at any time. It indicates the absence of a particular action or state, without exception. It can also indicate a negative response or rejection of an offer or invitation.
Examples of “Never” As An Adverb of Time
Following are some examples of “Never” as an Adverb of Time.
- I never eat meat because I am a vegetarian.
- He never misses a deadline because he is very organized.
- They never go to bed late because they like to get enough sleep.
- I never watch horror movies because I get scared easily.
- She never takes public transportation because she prefers to drive.
“Sometimes” As An Adverb of Time
“Sometimes” is a combination of the words “some” and “times,” and has been in use since the Middle English period. As an adverb of time, “sometimes” refers to occasional instances or events that happen from time to time. It can indicate a lack of regularity or consistency, but not necessarily rarity.
Examples of “Sometimes” As An Adverb of Time
Following are some examples of “Sometimes” as an Adverb of Time.
- Sometimes I like to go for a run in the morning before work.
- He sometimes listens to music while he works to help him concentrate.
- They sometimes have breakfast for dinner as a fun change.
- I sometimes forget to take my vitamins in the morning.
- She sometimes reads a book before going to bed to help her relax.
