An Adverb Between a Verb and Its Direct Object

An adverb should not be placed between the verb it is modifying, and the direct object (whatever the verb may be modifying). Most adverbs end in ‑ly, but not all of them, so they can be difficult to identify. Be sure to look for words which may be nouns or adjectives but are acting like adverbs.

The woman applied smoothly the lipstick.

The adverb (smoothly) should not be between the verb (applied) and the direct object (the lipstick). We need to re-write the sentence so the adverb is in the right spot, preferably right beside the verb.

The woman applied the lipstick smoothly. (better)

The woman smoothly applied the lipstick. (best)

I poured slowly the milk into the glass.

I poured the milk into the glass slowly. (better)

I slowly poured the milk into the glass. (best)

Remember to look for adverbs that don’t end in ‑ly.

Mary just went yesterday to the market.

Mary just went to the market yesterday.