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Comment and stance adverbials
C2 C2 grammar · lesson 9 of 12
Stance adverbials let you comment on your own statement – showing how certain you are, how you feel about it, or in what manner you are speaking. They are a quick, elegant way to add your voice.
What stance adverbials do
Most adverbs describe the verb (she ran quickly). Stance adverbials describe the whole sentence from the speaker’s point of view. They usually stand at the front, followed by a comma, but can also appear in the middle or at the end.
| Type | Examples | Shows |
|---|---|---|
| Certainty / doubt | undoubtedly, arguably, presumably, conceivably, apparently, seemingly | how sure the speaker is |
| Attitude / evaluation | fortunately, ironically, understandably, regrettably, to my surprise | the speaker’s feelings or judgement |
| Style / manner of speaking | frankly, honestly, briefly, strictly speaking, generally speaking | how the speaker is talking |
| Concession | admittedly, granted, to be fair | accepting a point against your view |
Examples in context
Admittedly, the plan is expensive, but it will save money in the long run.
It is arguably the most important invention of the century.
Ironically, the safety campaign caused more traffic jams.
Frankly, I don’t think the proposal is ready.
Presumably, the meeting will be moved to next week.
Strictly speaking, tomatoes are a fruit.
Understandably, many residents are angry about the decision.
To my astonishment, Omar agreed at once.
Position changes meaning
Some adverbs have two jobs. Compare: Honestly, he answered the question (= I’m being honest: he answered) and He answered the question honestly (= in an honest way). Similarly: Clearly, she explained the rules (= it is obvious) vs She explained the rules clearly (= in a clear way). As a stance adverbial, the word normally comes first and is followed by a comma.
Hopefully
Hopefully, the weather will improve (= I hope) is standard in modern English, although some very formal writers prefer It is hoped that….
✗ Surprising, nobody complained.
✓ Surprisingly, nobody complained.
✗ Admittedly the cost is high, so we should do it.
✓ Admittedly, the cost is high, but we should do it.
✗ At my surprise, the shop was open.
✓ To my surprise, the shop was open.
✗ Hopefully that the weather improves.
✓ Hopefully, the weather will improve.
Avoid stacking several stance adverbials in one sentence (Frankly, admittedly, it is arguably…). One well-chosen word is more powerful than three.