Here's a breakdown:
What it does:
* Specifies the time: It tells us when an action occurred, is occurring, or will occur.
* Provides context: It helps us understand the sequence of events and the relationship between different actions.
* Modifies verbs and clauses: It usually modifies a verb, but it can also modify an entire clause.
Examples:
* Single words: *now, today, yesterday, tomorrow, soon, later, always, never, often, rarely, occasionally*
* Phrases: *in the morning, at night, last week, next year, for a long time, since last Tuesday, every day, once a week*
* Clauses: *after the rain stopped, before the meeting started, while I was waiting*
Examples in sentences:
* "I will see you tomorrow." (Time adverbial: tomorrow)
* "She has been working for three hours." (Time adverbial: for three hours)
* "After the game ended, we went out for pizza." (Time adverbial: after the game ended)
Types of Time Adverbials:
* Point in Time: Indicates a specific moment or point in time (e.g., yesterday, next week).
* Duration: Indicates how long an action lasts (e.g., for an hour, all day).
* Frequency: Indicates how often an action occurs (e.g., always, sometimes, never).
Understanding Time Adverbials is important for:
* Clear communication: They help us convey time information effectively.
* Correct grammar: Using them properly ensures your sentences are grammatically sound.
* Writing and speaking effectively: They add detail and richness to your language.