AdvPs

AdvPs, short for adverb phrases, are syntactic constituents headed by an adverb. They function as modifiers, typically of verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, and can also modify entire clauses. AdvPs include single adverbs such as quickly, often, never; degree and scope modifiers such as very, extremely, almost, too; and multiword expressions used adverbially, such as in a hurry.

Distribution and function: AdvPs express manner, time, frequency, degree, or polarity. They can modify a verb to indicate how an action is performed (She spoke softly), a modifier or adjective to indicate intensity (very long, almost silent), or another AdvP (almost always). They can also appear sentence-initially or sentence-finally to tint the whole proposition (Fortunately, we arrived on time). Some AdvPs, like here or there, function as place modifiers; others, like tomorrow, mark time.

Position and form: The head of an AdvP is typically an adverb; the phrase may be a simple adverb or a multiword expression. In English, placement is relatively flexible: pre-verbal, post-verbal, and sentence-initial or sentence-final positions are all possible, with subtle differences in emphasis. In other languages, the distribution is language-specific; some rely more on particles or clitics rather than a dedicated AdvP category.

Relation to theory: AdvP is a conventional category in many grammar frameworks (often called Adverb Phrase). It contrasts with adverbial PPs or clauses in its head-based structure but overlaps in function. The interpretation of AdvPs is context-dependent and may involve scope relations, such as the extent to which a degree adverb covers a verb or whole clause. Cross-linguistic variation remains a topic of study.