Not all adverbs are equal and to apply them equally when writing prose or to judge them equally when editing that prose could weaken one's ability to effectively communicate. As with most things, the middle path is often best, especially when one is editing for clarity.
One should always consider the intent versus the actual impact of a chosen word before altering or deleting that word. If the word enhances or adds clarity, the question then becomes an issue of judgement -- would another word convey or support the intent more effectively? If not, the word should remain unchanged.
I find it useful to categorize adverbs and to measure their potential value in written prose according to those general categories.
For example, there are concrete adverbs and abstract adverbs.
Abstract adverbs express concepts, attitudes or very broad, indistinct groupings. Adverbs such as, certainly, definitely, fortunately, unfortunately, actually, obviously, humanly, generally, absolutely, hardly, etc. are imprecise because they express abstract concepts or encompass such an inclusive category that they are all but meaningless. They may help to create realistic dialogue, but in other prose, their presence is seldom critical to understanding or clarity. At best, these adverbs may contribute to the flow of the prose in the same way they add emphasis or "beats" in our daily speech. Therefore, my own personal guideline is simple:
"Unless such adverbs prove necessary to the flow of my prose, they should be deleted because their absence almost never impacts my intended meaning."
Concrete adverbs evoke specific images and/or add precision that enhances or clarifies the described action. For example, adverbs such as slowly, rapidly, closely, barely, narrowly, softly, loudly, firmly, gently, roughly, dimly, brightly, etc. often clarify by indicating precise degrees of action. Note that most of these adverbs are related to sensory input. For example:
"He followed" becomes more precise or creates a more precise image when stated as "He followed slowly" or "He followed closely."
Other concrete adverbs indicate degrees of intent or limiting conditions of an action. Carefully, rashly, hesitantly, boldly, awkwardly, smoothly, tastefully, garishly, etc. may add precision to an action or clarify intent.
And some adverbs add degrees of precision to emotional responses or reactions. Such adverbs may add clarity to the "how" or "why" of an action. Lazily, angrily, lovingly, brusquely, impatiently, patiently, enthusiastically, etc. may help to indicate a mood or reaction.
However, my most basic test for all adverbs remains the same:
"Does removing the adverb alter the precise meaning? If so, can I clarify that meaning by choosing a different verb or by rearranging the sentence? If the adverb appears necessary for clarity and/or precision and a different verb will not convey the same intent or meaning, then that adverb needs to remain for clarity."
In the end, word choice is a judgement call. Categorizing adverbs and checking for precision and clarity helps me make that judgement call with more confidence.
© 2000 Dave Swinford.
