Question

Identify the part of speech of the underlined word:
He spoke to us gently.

• A. Verb
• B. Adverb
• C. Noun
• D. Adjective

Hint:

Adverbs often end in "-ly" and answer questions like how?, when?, where?, or to what extent? about verbs.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

In the sentence "He spoke to us gently," the word "gently" needs to be identified by its part of speech. This process involves several steps:

Step 1: Determine the function of "gently" within the sentence. It clarifies the manner in which the action of "spoke" occurred.

Step 2: Review common parts of speech:

• Verb: Denotes an action or state of being.
• Adverb: Modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, frequently ending in "-ly." These words indicate how, when, where, or to what degree an action takes place.
• Noun: Represents a person, place, thing, or idea.
• Adjective: Describes or modifies nouns and pronouns.

Step 3: Examine "gently." This word modifies the verb "spoke," specifying the way in which the speaking was done.

Conclusion: As "gently" modifies a verb and explains the method of the action, it is classified as an Adverb.