Are you familiar with flat adverbs?
Many common expressions contain these.
Native English speakers use them constantly but might not know what grammar experts call them.
Today you’ll learn how and when to use flat adverbs.
Play fair
Lindsay asks Aubrey if she knows anyone who doesn’t play fair.
Aubrey responds that she plays pickleball with someone who is notorious for making poor calls.
Lindsay had a similar experience playing tennis when she was younger.
Saying “play fair” is an example of using a flat adverb.
Sometimes these are correct grammatically and sometimes they aren’t.
In a previous episode they specifically taught about flat adverbs.
Today, you will learn phrases that use these adverbs.
Adverbs for great conversations
To refresh your memory, a flat adverb is an adverb that has the same form as the corresponding adjective.
It does not require adding “-ly” to function as an adverb.
- Drive safe
- Run fast
- Play awful
- Eat slow
Today you’ll learn phrases with flat adverbs and how to them in sentences.
Flat adverbs are also known as simple adverbs or bare adverbs.
#1: Play fair
This means to observe principles of justice or to tell someone to avoid cheating.
You can use this also to say to be ethical in business dealings.
Example:
- That competitor isn’t playing fair. They’re using extremely underhanded techniques.
#2: Dress smart
This means to wear clean, neat, and appropriate clothing that’s well-fitting and stylish.
It can also mean to dress in a way that conveys professionalism and respect.
You will also hear the phrase “smart casual” which is a dress code that refers to dressing up that’s both formal but also casual.
Example:
- I always try to dress smart for interviews.
#3: Work hard
This refers to being engaged in earnest and energetic work.
You may also hear the phrase ‘work smarter, not harder’ which means to be strategic with your work.
This implies a goal of being efficient and proficient to create output.
Example:
- I’m a firm believer that anyone who works hard can reach their goals.
#4: Aim high
This means to be ambitious.
You can use this to encourage someone to be better at something or set a higher goal.
Examples:
- You need to aim high if you want to be successful.
- Their daughter is only applying to ivy league schools because they want her to aim high.
Roleplay
Here is a quick roleplay using the vocabulary and grammar tips shared by Lindsay and Aubrey in today’s episode.
This will better help you understand how to use these in an English conversation properly.
In this scenario, Aubrey and Lindsay are prepping for a team presentation.
Aubrey: I need to go shopping. I want to dress smart and I don’t have anything.
Lindsay: We’ve been working so hard on this presentation. I’m confident it’ll go well.
Aubrey: I agree! We need to aim high if we’re going to impress the board.
Lindsay: Absolutely. And we need to be ready for some crazy questions. They don’t always play fair!
Takeaway
Many flat adverbs used by natives should be avoided at work when we want to sound more polished.
However, these phrases are perfect for both business English and daily conversations.
Take note of the phrases shared in today’s episode and make sure to use it in your next conversation.
This will help you express yourself much better and help you build stronger connections and get your ideas across.
Remember, Connection NOT Perfection!™
Follow both The Business English Podcast and All Ears English so you don’t miss any episodes.
For details about flat adverbs, don’t miss AEE 2382: Drive Safe or Drive Safely? When to Use Flat Adverbs in English.
What other grammar tips do you want to learn?
Let us know in the comments below.
