Adverbs in Spanish

Introduction

Adverbs modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. They tell you how, when, where, how much, or how often something happens. Spanish adverbs work similarly to English ones, but formation and placement have specific rules.

Forming Adverbs with -mente

The most common way to form an adverb is to add -mente to the feminine singular form of an adjective (equivalent to English "-ly"):

Rules: If the adjective has a masculine/feminine distinction, use the feminine form. If the adjective has only one form (like fácil or feliz), just add -mente directly. If the adjective has an accent mark, the adverb keeps it: rápida → rápidamente.

When Two -mente Adverbs Appear Together

To avoid repetition, only the last adverb gets -mente:

• Habla clara y lentamente. — She speaks clearly and slowly.
• Lo hizo rápida y eficientemente. — He did it quickly and efficiently.

(NOT: claramente y lentamente)

Common Adverbs by Category

Time (¿Cuándo?)

Place (¿Dónde?)

Manner (¿Cómo?)

Note: Rápido and despacio are used as adverbs directly — no need for rápidamente in casual speech. Habla rápido. (He talks fast.)

Quantity (¿Cuánto?)

Adverb Placement

General Rule

Adverbs usually go right after the verb they modify:

• Corre rápidamente. — He runs quickly.
• Habla bien el español. — She speaks Spanish well.
• Siempre llega tarde. — He always arrives late.

Before Adjectives or Other Adverbs

When modifying an adjective or adverb, the adverb goes before it:

• Es muy inteligente. — She's very intelligent.
• Habla bastante rápido. — He talks quite fast.
• Estoy casi listo. — I'm almost ready.

Flexible Placement for Emphasis

Time and frequency adverbs can move for emphasis:

• Mañana voy al médico. (neutral)
• Voy al médico mañana. (emphasis on "tomorrow")
• Siempre como a las dos. / Como siempre a las dos. (both fine)

Practice