Adverbiformation

Adverbiformation is the process by which adverbs are created or derived within a language. Adverbs are words that modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, typically signaling manner, time, place, degree, or frequency. Adverbiformation thus covers the various morphological and syntactic routes through which these words come into being.

Common mechanisms include derivational affixation, conversion, and periphrasis. Derivational suffixes are a major route: in English, adjectives often form adverbs with the suffix -ly (quick → quickly, slow → slowly). In many Romance languages, adverbs are formed with suffixes such as -mente in Spanish or -ment in French (lent → lentement, rapide → rapidement). Some languages also employ noun-to-adverb derivation or multiple affixes to yield nuanced adverbial meanings.

Conversion, or zero-derivation, places adjectives into adverbial use without overt morphology in languages where this is allowed, though not all adjectives can function as adverbs in every context. Periphrastic forms—such as "in a [adjective] way" or "with [adjective] manner"—offer an explicit alternative when direct affixation is unused or limited.

Cross-linguistic variation is notable. While English relies heavily on -ly and a handful of irregular adverbs, many languages prefer dedicated adverbial suffixes or periphrasis. Some languages maintain tight separations between adjective and adverb forms, while others use nearly identical forms for both categories.

Semantics and usage constraints influence adverbiformation. Certain adjective–adverb relationships are irregular (good → well), and some languages preserve clear distinctions between adverbs and adjectives that affect syntax and inflection.