Adverbs of Degree (B2-C1)

Adverbs of Degree (B2–C1): How Strong Is Your English, Really?

There comes a point in every learner’s journey when very starts to feel a little… tired. At B2–C1 level, English is no longer just about being correct. It’s about precision. About choosing exactly how strong an idea should sound. This is where adverbs of degree quietly transform your English. They allow you to soften opinions, intensify emotions, show balance, and sound thoughtful — all things examiners and native speakers notice immediately.

What Are Adverbs of Degree?

Adverbs of degree tell us how much, to what extent, or how strong something is. They usually modify adjectives, other adverbs and verbs.

Compare:

• The film was interesting.
• The film was quite interesting.
• The film was extremely interesting.

Same adjective. Very different message.

Weak Degree: Gentle and Diplomatic

These adverbs reduce intensity and are excellent for polite opinions, academic writing, and balanced arguments.

Common weak adverbs

slightly · a bit · rather · fairly · quite (depending on context)

• I’m slightly concerned about the results.
• The task was fairly challenging.
• The explanation was quite clear.

Exam tip: Using weak degree adverbs helps you avoid sounding too absolute — a big plus in discussion essays and reviews.

Medium Degree: Neutral and Natural

These adverbs are common in everyday speech and neutral writing.

Common medium adverbs

quite · pretty · really

• The lesson was quite useful.
• She speaks English really well.
• I’m pretty sure this is the right answer.

Caution for C1 learners: Overusing really can make your writing sound informal. Variety matters.

Strong Degree: Clear Emphasis and Confidence

Strong adverbs add impact and are ideal for persuasive writing, reviews, and confident conclusions.

Common strong adverbs

very · extremely · highly · deeply · incredibly

• The results were extremely disappointing.
• She is highly motivated.
• I’m deeply grateful for your support.

C1 upgrade: Prefer highly / deeply over very in formal contexts.

Extreme Degree: No Middle Ground

Some adverbs express an absolute or near-absolute degree and are often used with strong adjectives.

Common extreme adverbs

absolutely · completely · totally · utterly

• The idea is absolutely brilliant.
• The room was completely silent.
• I’m utterly convinced.

Important rule: Avoid combining extreme adverbs with weak adjectives.

❌ absolutely good

✅ absolutely fantastic

Adverbs of Degree in Negative Sentences

Degree adverbs are especially powerful when combined with negatives.

• The explanation wasn’t particularly helpful.
• I don’t entirely agree with this view.
• She isn’t especially keen on change.

This kind of language sounds careful, academic, and advanced — perfect for B2–C1 writing tasks.

Word Partnerships Matter

Some adverbs naturally “prefer” certain adjectives. Native speakers feel these patterns instinctively.

Common collocations

• highly successful / unlikely / effective
• deeply concerned / disappointed / moved
• utterly ridiculous / exhausted
• perfectly clear / reasonable

Learning these pairs will instantly raise your level.

Final Tip for Learners

Adverbs of degree are not about exaggeration. They are about control.

Instead of asking “Is this correct?”, ask:

How strong do I want this idea to sound?

Master that choice — and your English will sound calmer, smarter, and far more advanced.

Download Adverbs of Degree – Practice Worksheet (B2–C1) in PDF here

Learn linking words and phrases to signify importance here

Learn how to write an article for C1 Advanced here

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