What Are Adverbs of Frequency?
Adverbs of frequency tell us how often an action happens. They answer the question “How often?”
- always (100% of the time)
- usually (80-90% of the time)
- often (60-70% of the time)
- sometimes (30-50% of the time)
- hardly ever (5-10% of the time)
- never (0% of the time)
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Where Do Adverbs of Frequency Go?
The position of adverbs of frequency depends on the type of verb in the sentence. There are two main rules for A1 learners.
Remember these rules to put the adverb in the correct place.
Rule 1: With the Verb ‘To Be’ (am, is, are)
When you use the verb to be, the adverb of frequency goes *after* am, is, or are.
Think: Subject + to be + adverb of frequency + …
- He is always late.
- They are never tired.
- I am usually happy on Fridays.
Rule 2: With Other Verbs (Action Verbs)
For most other verbs (action verbs like eat, go, study, play), the adverb of frequency goes *before* the main verb.
Think: Subject + adverb of frequency + main verb + …
- She often studies English.
- We usually go to the park.
- They never eat meat.
An exception: sometimes can also go at the beginning or end of a sentence for emphasis, but the middle position is always correct.
| Verb Type | Rule: Adverb Position |
|---|---|
| Most Verbs (e.g., eat, go) | Subject + Adverb + Main Verb |
| Verb To Be (am, is, are) | Subject + To Be + Adverb |
Examples
- My brother is always busy.
- We usually watch TV in the evening.
- She often visits her grandparents.
- I am sometimes late for class.
- They hardly ever complain.
- He never eats vegetables.
Practice
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Chat with an Advisor on WhatsAppCommon mistakes for Spanish speakers
Spanish speakers often make mistakes with the position of adverbs of frequency. Here are some common errors:
- Putting the adverb after the main verb (not ‘to be’):
- Incorrect: I drink always coffee.
- Correct: I always drink coffee.
- Putting the adverb before the verb ‘to be’:
- Incorrect: She always is happy.
- Correct: She is always happy.
Remember the two main rules: *before* the main verb, *after* to be.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common adverbs of frequency?
The most common adverbs of frequency are always, usually, often, sometimes, hardly ever, and never.
Can ‘sometimes’ go in different positions?
Yes, sometimes is special! It can go at the beginning, in the middle (before the main verb or after ‘to be’), or at the end of a sentence. For example: Sometimes I read books., I sometimes read books., I read books sometimes.
Does ‘never’ follow the same rules?
Yes, never follows the same rules as other adverbs of frequency. It goes *before* the main verb (I never eat meat.) and *after* the verb to be (He is never sad.).
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