Lesson 270 - Parts of the Sentence - Adverb Clauses

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Adverb clauses can be used in various ways (as with adjective clauses). Because of this, they can give variety to your sentences.

 

Sometimes we find adverb clauses that have left some words out. They are called reduced adverb clauses. 

 

Example: 

While (she was) speaking to the timid student, the teacher spoke slowly.

Than and as introduce clauses that are called elliptical clauses. That is they have some of their parts understood but not stated. 

 

Example: 

You are smarter than I. (am smart omitted) 

- than I modifies the comparative word smarter

Instructions: Find the adverb clauses in these sentences and tell what word they modify. If it is a reduced adverb clause or elliptical adverb clause add the missing words.

1. You act as if I enjoy punishing you.

2. The contractor roughened the concrete while it was still wet.

3. My sister is smarter than I.

4. The manager talked with the workers after listening to their suggestions.

5. Before returning to work, he ate his lunch.

--For answers scroll down.

Answers:

1. You act as if I enjoy punishing you.

- as if I enjoy punishing you modifies act

2. The contractor roughened the concrete while it was still wet.

- while it was still wet modifies roughened

3. My sister is smarter than I (am smart).

-- elliptical adverb clause

- than I (am smart) modifies smarter

4. The manager talked with the workers after (he had listened) to their suggestions.

-- reduced adverb clause

- after (he had listened) to their suggestions modifies talked

5. Before (he returned) to work, he ate his lunch.

-- reduced adverb clause

- Before (he returned) to work modifies ate

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