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Syntax of Simple and Complex Sentences Summer semester 2010/2011 April 13th 2011 I. Identify types of adverbials: • To tap a private telephone line is not technically a very difficult operation. • You can get a B grade just for these two answers. • By pressing this button you can stop the machine. • She replied to questions with great courtesy. • Officers never get drunk while on duty. • We haven't yet eaten. • The children are running around upstairs. • They deliberately misled us all. • He took the book from me. II. Disjuncts are a special type of adverb that have a sort of superior role to the rest of the sentence. There are two main kinds: either they indicate how the speaker is speaking -frankly, personally - or they comment on the content - perhaps, certainly, foolishly, quite rightly. Again, many of these words can also function as other sorts of adverbs, so position is important to indicate meaning. Add the adverbs shown, in the best places to give the meanings indicated. 1 understandably: She was very upset. (I can understand that). SHE WAS UNDERSTANDABLY VERY UPSET or UNDERSTANDABLY, SHE WAS VERY UPSET. 2 frankly: It isn't easy for some people to talk to their friends and families about their problems. (They find it difficult to discuss their feelings.) 3 frankly: I don't know why I sit here drinking with you. (If I say what I think, that's how I feel.) 4 truthfully: He had tried to write a letter that described what it was like here. (He wanted the description to be fair and accurate.) 5 truthfully: It was fairly obvious that he didn't want me any more: and I didn't want him any more either. (I am telling the truth when I say I didn't want him.) 6 honestly: I'll go if you like. I don't mind. (It is really true that I don't mind.) 7 honestly: Dealing with feelings, on the other hand, can help bring the family closer together. (The discussions need to be honest.) 8 generally: Scarcely three centuries have elapsed since it has been accepted that, indeed, the Earth does move. (Before that only a few people took this view.) 9 generally: The poor have been in favour of greater equality. (Well, they usually have!) 10 generally: They felt they had to watch the film before it was shown. (Before it was shown to the public.) III. Among the underscored adverbials in the examples below, pick up those that are not adjuncts, and say what class of adverbials they belong to and how they differ from adjuncts. • • • • • • • • • •

Interestingly, Mrs Jensen consulted her lawyers. Frankly, I'm tired. How far did you drive yesterday? I just can't believe a word he says! My wife is very busy this evening, and in addition, she is not feeling very well. Normally, Jenny goes to bed before midnight. She has become much better off since yesterday. Stay in bed until your temperature comes down. The play was perhaps written by Francis Beaumont. They fully appreciate the problem.