Adverbs of Frequency
Adverbs of frequency tell us how often something happens. They range from always (100%) to never (0%) and follow specific position rules in English sentences.
The frequency scale
Adverbs of frequency express how regularly an action occurs. They are arranged on a scale from 100% to 0%. Learning this scale helps you choose the right adverb for the right situation.
Position rules
Adverbs of frequency have fixed positions in a sentence. Getting these wrong is one of the most common mistakes at this level.
- Before the main verb: She always arrives on time. I usually have coffee in the morning. They never eat meat.
- After the verb "be": He is always late. She is never rude. We are usually busy on Mondays.
- After auxiliary verbs: I have never been to Japan. You should always check your work. She can sometimes be difficult.
I always brush my teeth before bed. (before main verb)
She is often tired after work. (after be)
They have never visited Scotland. (after auxiliary)
He sometimes forgets his keys. (before main verb)
Sometimes, usually, and often — flexible position
Unlike always and never, the adverbs sometimes, usually, and often can also appear at the beginning or end of a sentence for emphasis.
Sometimes I walk to work. / I sometimes walk to work. / I walk to work sometimes.
Often she stays late at the office. / She often stays late.
Usually he takes the bus. / He usually takes the bus.
Adverbs of frequency in questions and negatives
| Statement | Question | Negative |
|---|---|---|
| She always studies. | Does she always study? | She doesn't always study. |
| He is often late. | Is he often late? | He isn't often late. |
| They never eat fish. | Do they ever eat fish? | They never eat fish. |
Ever, never, and always in questions
- Use ever (not never) in questions: Do you ever go swimming? (not: Do you never go swimming?)
- Use never in negative statements (not not ever in most cases): I never watch TV.
- Use always with the present simple for habits; with the present continuous it implies irritation: She is always losing her keys!
Common mistake: Never place always or never after the main verb: She arrives always on time ✗. They must come before the main verb or after be: She always arrives on time ✓.
Tip: Hardly ever and rarely are already negative in meaning — never add "not" to them. I don't hardly ever go is wrong. Say I hardly ever go or I rarely go.