vi verbi

Adverbs: the much-maligned words that often end in ‘-ly’ and spark heated debates in writing circles. While they are a legitimate part of speech, their use in novels is often cautioned against. Adverbs can be problematic, but there are also occasions when they might actually serve a purpose.

The primary criticism against adverbs is that they tend to ‘tell’ rather than ‘show,’ thereby weakening the narrative. For example, writing ”She smiled happily” is less evocative than describing her smile in a way that allows the reader to infer her happiness.

Adverbs can also introduce redundancy into your writing. Phrases like ”He whispered quietly” are tautological, as whispering is inherently a quiet action. Such redundancies can slow down the narrative and irritate discerning readers.

Relying on adverbs can be seen as a shortcut, a way to avoid finding the perfect verb or constructing a more vivid scene. This can result in a less immersive story and may disappoint readers looking for a richer experience.

Despite the general advice to avoid them, adverbs are not universally bad. They can be effective when used judiciously. Sometimes, an adverb can add a layer of nuance that a strong verb alone cannot provide. For instance, ”He ran recklessly” conveys a different sense of urgency and danger than ”He sprinted.”

In dialogue, adverbs can make the conversation sound more natural and true to the character’s voice. People only sometimes speak in perfectly crafted sentences, and an adverb here and there can add authenticity.

Some adverbs serve as intensifiers, like ‘very’ or ‘really,’ and can be effective when used sparingly to emphasise a point or emotion.

The key to using adverbs in novels is moderation and thoughtful consideration. Before you insert an adverb, ask yourself if it serves a purpose or if a stronger verb or more descriptive phrase could take its place. Writing is an art form, and while guidelines can be helpful, they are not set in stone. The best writers know when to follow the rules and when to break them for the sake of a compelling story.