An adverb of frequency tells us how often something takes place.
Adverb of Frequency in English
The Position of the Adverb in a Sentence:
1. An adverb of frequency goes before a principal verb (except with To Be).
- Do you often go to the cinema?
- I sometimes watch Chinese films.
- She never eats vegetables.
- I always read comic books.
- They rarely watch music channels.
2. An adverb of frequency goes after the verb To Be.
- I am always worried about my study result.
- She is usually very happy.
- I have never done anything bad.
- She is always cooking spaghetti.
- You are seldom anxious about my health.
3. Between the auxiliary and the principal verb. When the verb consists of an auxiliary verb, the frequency adverb goes after it.
- He has always done justice to all.
- I have often thought of starting a business.
- I have never forgotten those unfortunate events.
- I have sometimes managed to hoodwink others.
- We could hardly ever appreciate his conduct.
- We shall never seek such favors.
- They will always regret having done this.
- They will usually take such big risks.
Notes
1. Some frequency adverbs (e.g. usually, normally, often, frequently, sometimes and occasionally) can also go in the beginning or end of a sentence. For example:
- He writes often.
- We visit them frequently.
- Sometimes I am late for office.
2. The adverbs always, ever, never, seldom and rarely need to be placed before the verb. These adverbs cannot be placed in the beginning or end of a sentence.
3. Adverbs usually go after the auxiliaries. But when the auxiliaries need to be stressed, they are sometimes put after the adverbs. For example:
- We never should do such things.
- You always have done justice to all.
4. Used to and have to are always placed after adverbs.
- We sometimes used to stay up the whole night.
- He occasionally used to write to me.
- The fire brigade always has to be ready to face any emergency.
Adverbs of Frequency in English | Images
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