Which of these phrases is grammatically correct at the beginning of a sentence?
Example: Most important(ly), she never baked the cake.
2006-12-26 08:37:04 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Education & Reference ➔ Words & Wordplay
"Most importantly", an adverbial phrase, is correct. It modifies the verb, "baked". 'Most important" is an adjective phrase (modifies a noun.)
2006-12-26 14:42:34 · answer #1 · answered by rhymer 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The short answer is that either form of the word is acceptable. Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary of English Usage (1994) has a lengthy and interesting (really) discussion of the longstanding argument (really) over important vs. importantly, with many citations, and concludes that “both are defensible grammatically and both are in respectable use.”
The tilt here, though, is toward “importantly.” The adverb can stand alone at the start of a sentence or clause — without “more” or “most” or any other modifier — and the adjective can’t.
2006-12-26 09:33:58 · answer #2 · answered by Jake D 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Most importantly
2006-12-26 08:39:24 · answer #3 · answered by ◊junior c/o '11◊ 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Most importantly.
2006-12-26 08:39:49 · answer #4 · answered by wildbill05733 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Neither one is the proper way to start a sentence. It sounds like you are making a series of points about something.......the proper way of writing it would be......."The most important point being, she never baked the cake."
2006-12-26 08:49:11 · answer #5 · answered by Shale S 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
"Most importantly" would be correct. Remember to check how many things you are comparing it to. If it is just one other thing, you would say "More importantly" rather than "Most..."
2006-12-26 08:45:32 · answer #6 · answered by moobaby09 2 · 3⤊ 0⤋
most importantly
2006-12-26 08:39:24 · answer #7 · answered by Angie 1 · 2⤊ 0⤋