14.

2 Hedging Adverbs

 Expressing a degree of doubt

*Remember, adverbs describe adjectives or verbs

apparently = it appears that, it is apparent that

approximately = not completely accurate (also roughly)
arguably = it could be argued that
reasonably = fairly, to some extent
relatively = fairly, when compared to other similar things or situations
reportedly = it is reported that
supposedly = people suppose that, it is generally believed that
typically = normally, usually
not necessarily = not always

1. The fact that the word is apparently untranslatable does not necessarily mean that it should be left in
the original language.
2. It seems reasonably certain that greater regulation of banking practice will follow what was arguably
the biggest financial crisis since the 1930s.
3. Bolivia’s mountains have rendered it relatively safe from invasion.
  Making adjectives weaker

Slightly = weakest, can be used with comparatives

Fairly = can’t be used with comparatives
Quite = use article after quite, (when used with gradable adjectives, the meaning changes)
Rather = least weak, usually expresses surprise or negative opinion, can be used with
comparatives

1. American and Canadian footballs may look the same, but the sizes are slightly different.
2. It is rather more difficult to understand why some convicted murderers are kept far longer in prison
than others.
3. The two leaders had a rather tense meeting.
4. Politicians sometimes argue that it is quite an easy step from soft to hard drug use.
5. There will be a fairly strong southerly wind this evening.

 Using adverbs of frequency

Never
Rarely
Seldom
Occasionally
Sometimes
Often
Usually
Normally
Always

1. The number of drunk driving arrests is normally higher over the holiday period.