UNIT 16: INVERSION

For emphasis, certain adverbs and adverbial phrases can be

put at the beginning of a sentence or clause with an
inversion of the following verb; the position of the subject
and verb is the same as in question forms. These structures
are often used in literary or formal contexts. The adverbials
are referred to as broad negatives and have negative or
restricted meanings.
Forms of inversion
When the verb is used in a form with an auxiliary, the
structure is adverbial + auxiliary + subject + main verb.
Hardly had I started speaking when he interrupted me.
When the verb is used in a form with more than one
auxiliary, the structure is adverbial + first auxiliary +
subject + other auxiliaries + main verb.
Never have I been introduced to so many people in a single
night.
With present/past simple, the structure is adverbial +
do/did + subject + main verb.
Never did he consider he might be discovered.
With the simple form of be, the main verb is placed before
the subject.
Rarely was he at home.
Common examples of adverbials used in these structures
are shown below.
Little did I ever imagine that I would one day be working
here myself.
Never have I seen anything more remarkable.
No sooner had she walked in the room than everyone fell
silent.
Not only did he cook dinner for everyone but he also tidied
the kitchen after everyone had gone home.
On no account am I going to tell him what I think of him.
Seldom have I encountered such rudeness!
Under no circumstances could we ever agree to such an
arrangement.
There are other adverbials which are followed by different
patterns of inversion.
So alarmed was he that he fell from his horse.

Only after this project is completed could we contemplate

taking on something new.
Not until you convince me that you are committed will I
give
you my agreement.