Tuesday Talks About Adverbs

World, it's time for a little intervention. You know your friend, Adverb? Yes, about him. (Note: him? Just felt like a him.) I understand he's fun, and seems to spice up any conversation. Sometimes he really does make himself useful, but you must have noticed how often he tries to dominate a conversation, throwing in his two cents after almost every dialogue tag!

You really must stand up for yourself, dear. Regain control of your sentences. Don't let Adverb make everything you say end in -ly. There is a better way, and you know it. Be strong by choosing stronger verbs or added action. Instead of an exchange that looks like this:

"Are you sure?" he said nervously.

"Of course!" she said excitedly.

"Okay." He signed his name hesitantly. She grinned and took his hand firmly, and they walked down the hall together happily.

Try:

"Are you sure?" he asked, glancing from side to side.

"Of course!" she enthused.

"Okay." He paused before signing his name. She grinned and squeezed his hand, and they walked down the hall together with fingers intertwined.

Do you see the freedoms you have when you distance youself from Adverb? Of course you two can still be friends--he's not always bad--but do use caution.

Kieryn

www.kierynnicolas.com