Important topics: Noun, Pronoun, Verbs, Adjectives, etc.

Discourse Markers

Discourse markers are words and expressions used to show how discourse is constructed. We use different discourse markers in speaking and writing. In speaking, the following discourse markers are very common: - anyway, like, right, you know, fine, now, so, I mean, good, oh, well, as I say, great, okay, mind you, for a start. Discourse markers to order or sequence what we say: - and, in general, second, to sum up, and then, in the end, secondly, what’s more, first (of all), last of all, so, well, firstly, next, lastly, for a start, on top of that, third(ly). Discourse markers as responses: - absolutely, fine, okay, wow, (all) right, good, quite (more formal), yeah, certainly, great, really, yes, definitely, I see, sure, exactly, no, wonderful. Discourse markers showing attitude: - actually, frankly, I think, (I’m) sorry, admittedly, hopefully, literally, surprisingly, amazingly, honestly, naturally, thankfully, basically, ideally, no doubt, to...

Adverb Clauses

Adverb Clauses Adverb clauses are groups of words that function as an adverb. To understand this, you need to know about clauses and the functions of adverbs. Types of Clauses A clause is a group of words that contains a subject and verb (predicate). This differs from a phrase, which does not have a subject and a verb , like “to the park.” Clauses can be independent or dependent. Independent clauses are called sentences as they can stand alone and express a complete thought. Dependent clauses, or subordinate clauses, are subordinate to something else, usually an independent clause, and depend on it for meaning. Here are some examples with the dependent clause underlined: Because he has a college degree , he was given a great job. When the storm started , she was at the store. Bob wore the coat that I gave him . You can see that each underlined clause cannot stand on its own, but needs a clause to help it make sense or to help it co...

Use of Passive Voice

Use of Passive Passive voice is used when the focus is on the action. It is not important or not known, however, who or what is performing the action. Example: My bike was stolen. In the example above, the focus is on the fact that my bike was stolen. I do not know, however, who did it. Sometimes a statement in passive is more polite than active voice, as the following example shows: Example: A mistake was made. In this case, I focus on the fact that a mistake was made, but I do not blame anyone (e.g. You have made a mistake.). Form of Passive Subject + finite form of to be + Past Participle (3rd column of irregular verbs ) Example: A letter was written. When rewriting active sentences in passive voice, note the following: the object of the active sentence becomes the subject of the passive sentence the finite form of the verb is changed ( to be + past participle) the subject of the active sentence becomes the object of the passive sent...

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