Intensifiers as adverbs in Bosnian Grammar

In the realm of language learning, understanding the nuances of adverbs is crucial for mastering fluency and expressing oneself effectively. Among the various types of adverbs, *intensifiers* play a significant role in modifying adjectives and other adverbs to convey degrees of intensity. This article will delve into the world of intensifiers as adverbs, examining their functions, common examples, and how they can be used to enhance language proficiency.

What Are Intensifiers?

Intensifiers are a specific type of adverb used to give additional emphasis or force to the meaning of an adjective or another adverb. They do not merely modify; they amplify. For example, in the sentence “She is very happy,” the word “very” is an intensifier that amplifies the adjective “happy.”

Common Intensifiers

There are numerous intensifiers in the English language, and they can be categorized based on the degree of intensity they convey. Some of the most common intensifiers include:

1. **Very**: This is perhaps the most frequently used intensifier. It adds a high degree of intensity to adjectives and adverbs. For instance, “very tall” or “very quickly.”
2. **Extremely**: This intensifier adds an even higher degree of intensity than “very.” For example, “extremely cold” or “extremely well.”
3. **So**: Often used in casual speech, “so” intensifies both adjectives and adverbs. For instance, “so happy” or “so quickly.”
4. **Absolutely**: This intensifier adds a sense of totality or completeness. For example, “absolutely certain” or “absolutely wrong.”
5. **Quite**: This can either mean “very” or “fairly,” depending on the context. For instance, “quite interesting” can mean “very interesting” or “fairly interesting.”
6. **Really**: Similar to “very,” it adds a high degree of intensity. For example, “really beautiful” or “really fast.”
7. **Totally**: This intensifier suggests complete intensity. For instance, “totally convinced” or “totally different.”

How Intensifiers Modify Adjectives and Adverbs

Intensifiers can modify both adjectives and adverbs to varying degrees. The placement of the intensifier is crucial for the sentence to make sense. Typically, the intensifier comes directly before the adjective or adverb it modifies.

For example:
– Adjective: “She is very intelligent.”
– Adverb: “He ran extremely quickly.”

In these sentences, the intensifiers “very” and “extremely” enhance the meaning of the adjectives “intelligent” and the adverb “quickly,” respectively.

Degrees of Intensity

Intensifiers can convey different degrees of intensity, ranging from mild to extreme. Understanding these degrees can help in choosing the appropriate intensifier to match the context and desired level of emphasis.

1. **Mild Intensifiers**: These include words like “somewhat,” “fairly,” and “a bit.” They suggest a low level of intensity.
– Example: “He is somewhat tired.”

2. **Moderate Intensifiers**: These include words like “quite,” “rather,” and “pretty.” They suggest a moderate level of intensity.
– Example: “She is quite talented.”

3. **Strong Intensifiers**: These include words like “very,” “really,” and “so.” They suggest a high level of intensity.
– Example: “The movie was really good.”

4. **Extreme Intensifiers**: These include words like “extremely,” “absolutely,” and “totally.” They suggest the highest level of intensity.
– Example: “The weather is extremely hot.”

Special Cases and Exceptions

While intensifiers generally follow the rules mentioned above, there are some special cases and exceptions to be aware of.

Negative Intensifiers

Negative intensifiers include words like “barely,” “hardly,” and “scarcely.” These words reduce the intensity or degree of the adjective or adverb they modify.

– Example: “She is barely awake.”

Fixed Expressions

Certain fixed expressions or idiomatic phrases use intensifiers in specific ways. For example:

– “By no means” (not at all): “He is by no means an expert.”
– “In no way” (not at all): “This decision is in no way acceptable.”

Double Intensification

In casual speech, you might encounter double intensification, where two intensifiers are used together for added emphasis. While this is often considered informal or incorrect in standard English, it’s worth noting for comprehension.

– Example: “She is very, very happy.”

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

When using intensifiers, language learners often make certain mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and tips on how to avoid them.

Overuse of Intensifiers

One of the most common mistakes is the overuse of intensifiers, which can make speech or writing seem exaggerated or less credible.

– Poor Example: “The movie was really very extremely good.”
– Better Example: “The movie was extremely good.”

Incorrect Placement

Placing the intensifier in the wrong position can lead to confusion or a change in meaning.

– Poor Example: “She very is intelligent.”
– Better Example: “She is very intelligent.”

Using Intensifiers with Non-gradable Adjectives

Non-gradable adjectives, such as “perfect,” “unique,” or “dead,” describe absolute states and cannot be modified by intensifiers like “very” or “extremely.”

– Poor Example: “She is very perfect.”
– Better Example: “She is absolutely perfect.”

Using the Wrong Intensifier

Some intensifiers are not interchangeable. Using the wrong one can alter the intended meaning.

– Poor Example: “He is somewhat exhausted.”
– Better Example: “He is completely exhausted.”

Practical Exercises for Mastery

To fully grasp the use of intensifiers, it’s essential to practice. Here are some exercises to help you master their use.

Exercise 1: Identifying Intensifiers

Read the following sentences and identify the intensifiers.

1. “She is extremely talented.”
2. “The food was absolutely delicious.”
3. “I am quite tired.”
4. “He spoke very quickly.”
5. “The view is really beautiful.”

Exercise 2: Choosing the Right Intensifier

Fill in the blanks with the appropriate intensifier from the options given.

1. The weather is _______ cold. (very, extremely, somewhat)
2. She is _______ excited about the trip. (quite, barely, absolutely)
3. He ran _______ fast. (really, pretty, scarcely)
4. The movie was _______ boring. (so, rather, totally)
5. I am _______ sure about my decision. (somewhat, very, absolutely)

Exercise 3: Correcting Mistakes

Correct the mistakes in the following sentences.

1. “She is very unique.”
2. “The task is very completely finished.”
3. “He is really somewhat tired.”
4. “They are really very happy.”
5. “The cake is absolutely somewhat delicious.”

Conclusion

Intensifiers are powerful tools in the English language, allowing speakers to convey varying degrees of intensity and emphasis. By understanding their functions, common examples, and appropriate usage, language learners can significantly enhance their fluency and expressiveness. Remember to practice regularly and be mindful of common mistakes to master the art of using intensifiers effectively. Happy learning!

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