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  5. Never use an adverb to modify the verb said . . . he...

Never use an adverb to modify the verb 'said' . . . he admonished gravely. To use an adverb this way (or almost any way) is a mortal sin. The writer is now exposing himself in earnest, using a word that distracts and can interrupt the rhythm of the exchange.

Elmore Leonard
Writing, Verbs, Use
"Elmore Leonard's rules for writer" by Elmore Leonard, www.theguardian.com. February 24, 2010.
Never use an adverb to modify the verb 'said' . . . he admonished gravely. To use an adverb this way (or almost any way) is a mortal sin. The writer is now exposing himself in earnest, using a word that distracts and