Adverbs commonly modify verbs, adjectives, and other adverbs, but they can sometimes modify nouns and noun phrases.
(Modifying adverbs underlined and modified noun phrases in blue font)
1. Intensifying adverbs can modify noun phrase
Few intensifying adverbs such as quite and rather can pre-modify a noun phrase. Examples:
He inherited quite a fortune but frittered it away in foolish ventures.
I bought the air conditioner at quite an attractive price.
As we pushed further following the river downstream, the roar that we had been hearing for quite some time grew louder.
The meeting degenerated into rather a debate about who is at fault.
The President’s speech was rather a disappointment.
In the following sentences though, adverbs exactly and unbelievably are not modifiers of noun phrases 125 minutes and stunning dress, respectively. Here adverbs are modifying determiner 125 and adjective stunning.
The movie lasted exactly 125 minutes.
She wore an unbelievably stunning dress to the party.
2. Few phrases ending in of can modify noun phrase
Certain phrases ending in of such as kind of and sort of modify noun phrases, though such use is mostly informal:
With all the interruptions and cross-talking, the group discussion was kind of a mess.
He’s sort of a mystery to everyone in the office.
I had a bit of anxiety just before entering the interview room.
We had heck of a time during the vacation.
That was a hell of a win!
3. Adverbs of time and place can modify noun phrases
Adverbs of time (position and duration) and adverbs of place can post-modify noun phrase, though few of them can pre-modify as well (last two examples). Examples:
Don’t forget to bring a dessert for the dinner tomorrow.
She felt the effects of the workout the day after.
The celebration afterwards was over the top.
The conversation overnight made me realize how much I value our friendship.
The boy ahead seemed to be a familiar face.
The team needs to determine the way forward to meet our goals.
You can use the laptop here if you need to check your email.
Can you ask the man outside if he needs any help?
You’ll find instructions for treasure hunt in the box within.
I learned a lot about different cultures during my vacation abroad.
After the long work trip, I eagerly awaited my return home.
You should refer to the paragraph above for the initial definitions. [adverb can pre-modify as well: the above paragraph]
They converted the room downstairs into a guest bedroom. [adverb can pre-modify as well: the downstairs room]
Learn more: Adverbs can modify almost every part of speech – and even some phrases. Learn what else can adverbs modify.
