Word typesBeginner

Adverbs of Frequency

Adverbs of frequency tell us how often something happens. Common ones are always, usually, often, sometimes, rarely, and never. They usually go before the main verb but after the verb 'to be'. Use them to describe routines and habits.

WHEN TO USE

Use adverbs of frequency with the Present Simple to describe how often something happens. Place them before the main verb but after 'to be' or auxiliary verbs.

STRUCTURE

formS + adverb + main verb

She always brushes her teeth at night.

usageS + to be + adverb

He is never late for work.

exceptionadverb + S + V (for emphasis at start of sentence)

Sometimes I eat breakfast late.

SIGNAL WORDS

always
usually
often
sometimes
rarely
hardly ever
never

EXAMPLES

I always brush my teeth before bed.

She sometimes goes jogging in the morning.

He is never late for work.

They usually have dinner at 7 pm.

I rarely watch TV these days.

COMMON MISTAKES

I go always to the gym.

I always go to the gym.

Adverbs of frequency come BEFORE the main verb

She never is on time.

She is never on time.

After 'to be', adverbs of frequency come AFTER the verb

Tip

Think of frequency as a scale from 0% to 100%: never (0%) → rarely (10-20%) → sometimes (40-50%) → often (60-70%) → usually (80%) → always (100%).