Adverbs of degree are words that modify or describe the intensity or degree of an action, adjective,

or another adverb. They answer the question “to what extent” or “how much.” Adverbs of degree
can be divided into two types: intensifiers and mitigators.

Intensifiers increase the degree or strength of a word. Examples of intensifiers include “very,”
“extremely,” “totally,” “absolutely,” and “completely.” For instance, instead of saying “she is tired,”
you can say “she is very tired.” This emphasizes the degree of her fatigue.

Mitigators decrease the degree or strength of a word. Examples of mitigators include “slightly,” “a
little bit,” “somewhat,” and “partly.” For example, instead of saying “he is angry,” you can say “he
is slightly angry.” This reduces the intensity of his anger.

It’s important to note that some adjectives and adverbs already have a degree of intensity built into
them. For example, “hot” is already an intense word, so adding an intensifier like “very” would be
redundant. In such cases, using a mitigator might be more appropriate. For instance, instead of
saying “it’s very hot outside,” you could say “it’s a little bit hot outside.”

In conclusion, adverbs of degree are essential in English because they allow us to express the
intensity or degree of an action, adjective, or another adverb. By using them correctly, we can
convey our intended meaning with greater precision and clarity.

True or False? You Decide!

1
Adverbs of degree modify or describe the intensity or degree of a verb, noun, or pronoun.
2
Adverbs of degree can be divided into two types: intensifiers and modifiers.
3
Intensifiers decrease the degree or strength of a word.
4
Mitigators increase the degree or strength of a word.
5
"Very" is an example of an intensifier.
6
"Slightly" is an example of a mitigator.
7
Using an intensifier with an already intense word is appropriate.
8
Using a mitigator with an already intense word is appropriate.
9
Adverbs of degree are not important in English.
10
Adverbs of degree allow us to express the intensity or degree of an action, adjective, or another
adverb.