Use adverbs of degree like very, really, quite, and pretty before the adjective they modify, as in she is very tired, to show intensity. Enough is the key exception and always goes after the adjective instead, as in he is old enough to drive.
Grammar Rule
Adverbs of degree modify the intensity of an adjective or another adverb. Enough is the key exception: it always goes after the adjective, while all the others go before.
Adverbs of Degree: Rules and Examples
| Adverb | Position | Example |
|---|---|---|
| very / really / quite / pretty | before the adjective | She is very tired. This is really interesting. The room is quite small. |
| too | before the adjective (implies a problem) | This coffee is too hot. |
| enough | after the adjective | He is old enough to drive. |
Remember: very/really/quite/pretty/too go before the adjective; enough always goes after.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below placing the adverb of degree in the correct position. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
Adverbs of Degree – Very, Really, Quite, Pretty, Too, Enough
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where do most adverbs of degree go in a sentence?
Most adverbs of degree, like very, really, quite, and pretty, go before the adjective they modify, as in she is very tired.
Where does enough go compared to other adverbs of degree?
Enough is the exception and goes after the adjective, as in he is old enough to drive, unlike very or really.
What does too usually imply?
Too usually implies a problem or an excess, as in this coffee is too hot, meaning it is more than desired.
What is a common mistake with enough?
A common mistake is placing enough before the adjective like the other degree adverbs, saying enough old instead of the correct old enough.