Let’s first consider adverb as modifier of preposition and then as object (or complement) of preposition.
Adverb as modifier of preposition (or prepositional phrase)
Adverbs commonly modify verbs, adjectives, and other adverbs, but they can sometimes modify prepositions and – by extension – prepositional phrases. As a modifier of preposition, it is placed immediately before the preposition.
A preposition (mainly of time and place) can be pre-modified by few intensifying adverbs such as right, well, and just. Examples:
(Modifying adverbs underlined and prepositional phrases in blue font)
We’re well within our rights to demand better working conditions.
Fauci warns coronavirus could disrupt life well into new year. Source
The consequences of war have now reached well beyond the region.
He stumbled right at the start of the race.
The 100-year extinction panic is back, right on schedule. Source
Businesses saw right through Johnson’s bombast, but will Sunak? Source
We parked the car just outside the gate.
Our flight landed just after midnight.
The treasure is buried directly beneath the sand.
Learn more: Adverbs can modify almost every part of speech – and even some phrases. Learn what else can adverbs modify.
Adverb as object (or complement) of preposition
We know that noun phrase or noun clause function as object of preposition, but can an adverb fill that position. Yes, adverbs of place and time can. As object of preposition, it is placed immediately after the preposition.
Adverbs of place
Common adverbs of place that function as object of preposition are here, there, and home. Besides, there are few adverbs that go exclusively as object of preposition from. Common ones among them are abroad, above/below, beneath/underneath, behind, downstairs/upstairs, indoors/outdoors, inside/outside, and within/without. Examples:
I found my keys under here, next to the shelf.
We saw a beautiful sunset from there on the hilltop.
I arrived at home just in time for my daughter’s birthday celebration.
My friend is arriving today from abroad.
The cave is accessible from below the rock formations.
You get an entirely different view of the arch from behind.
I heard someone calling from downstairs.
We could feel the heat of forest fire nearby from inside the building.
Adverbs of time
Common adverbs of time that function as object of preposition are now, tomorrow, tonight, after, afterwards, later, then, today, lately, recently, soon, long, ever, and once. Examples:
They plan to launch the new product exactly one week from now.
She’ll be arriving in town a day after tomorrow.
Can we finish the work by tonight?
The store remains open till afterwards, so we can shop after the dinner.
Leopard hasn’t been sighted in the area since then.
I haven’t received a response till today?
There has been a noticeable change in his behavior since lately.
The suspect was working at a convenience store till recently.
He decided to follow the diet strictly for once, hoping for better outcome.
