Adverbs of degree

A1 Beginner

Adverbs of degree modify adjectives or other adverbs to express the intensity or strength of a quality. Common examples include 'very', 'really', and 'too'.

Overview

Adverbs of degree tell us how much or to what extent something is true. They usually sit directly before the adjective they modify.

Very and really make an adjective stronger.
Too means there is more of a quality than is wanted or needed, often suggesting a problem.

Form

adverb of degree + adjective

These adverbs are placed immediately before the adjective or adverb they are modifying.

Examples

Very vs. Too

Learners often confuse 'very' and 'too'. Use 'too' only when the intensity causes a negative result.

Adverb	Meaning	Example
Very	High degree (neutral/positive)	It is very hot (I like it).
Too	Excessive degree (negative/problem)	It is too hot (I cannot drink it).

Common mistakes

I am too happy today.
I am very happy today.
Being happy is positive, so 'very' is appropriate. 'Too' implies the happiness is a problem.
The water is hot very.
The water is very hot.
Adverbs of degree must come before the adjective, not after.

Practice

The tea is ___ hot; I cannot drink it. (very / too)
Show answer
too
Answer:too
Why:The speaker cannot drink the tea, which indicates a negative result caused by an excessive amount of heat.
She is a ___ good student. (really / too)
Show answer
really
Answer:really
Why:Being a good student is a positive quality, so we use 'really' to add emphasis.
This suitcase is ___ heavy for me to carry. (very / too)
Show answer
too
Answer:too
Why:The phrase 'for me to carry' implies that the weight is a problem, making 'too' the correct choice.