Types of Circumstance in Grammar

In functional grammar, a circumstance provides additional information about the action in a sentence. It can show where, how, why, or under what conditions an action takes place. The main types of circumstance include the following.

Extent

Describes the span or distance of an action or event.
Example: He walked across the bridge.

Location

Specifies the place where the action occurs.
Example: She is studying in the library.

Manner

Shows the way in which the action takes place.
Example: She danced gracefully.

Cause

Explains the reason behind the action.
Example: He left because of the rain.

Angle

Specifies the viewpoint or perspective of an action.
Example: He looked from a different angle.

Role

Describes the part or function of someone or something in the action.
Example: As a friend, she supported him.

Accompaniment

Indicates who or what was with the participant during the action.
Example: She walked with her dog.

Contingency

Describes a condition that affects the action.
Example: She will go if it is sunny.

References

Hultgren, A. K. (Ed.). (2016). Grammar, Context, and Meaning. Walton Hall, Milton Keynes.