The three basic functions are substantival, adjectival, and adverbial. video A substantive is any word performing a noun function. The basic noun functions are:
Words, phrases, and clauses can also function as adverbs or adjectives:
| Category | Definition | Questions Answered | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adjectival | Modifies a noun or pronoun, describing its quality, quantity, or extent | What kind? | The oak tree near the house must be removed. (what kind of tree?) |
| Adjectival | Which one? | The large book must be burned. (which book?) | |
| Adjectival | How many? | Six dogs chased Jeb. (how many dogs?) | |
| Adverbial | Modifies a verb, describing the manner, time, place, or reason of the action | How? | Jeb ran quickly. (Jeb ran how?) |
| Adverbial | When? | Jeb ate his food after sunset. (Jeb ate when?) | |
| Adverbial | Where? | Jeb slept under the bridge. (Jeb slept where?) | |
| Adverbial | Why? | Jeb studied to earn his degree. (Why did Jeb study?) |
Notes:
- Adjectival: Modifies nouns/pronouns, answering “what kind?”, “which one?”, or “how many?” (e.g., oak describes “tree”).
- Adverbial: Modifies verbs, answering “how?”, “when?”, “where?”, or “why?” (e.g., quickly describes “ran”).