Adverb of Frequency in English

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