Frequency adverbs are used to indicate how often something happens. They can be placed at different points in a sentence, depending on the word and context.
- Common frequency adverbs include: always, usually, often, sometimes, rarely, never.
- They can describe habitual actions, routines, or how frequently something occurs.
- The placement of frequency adverbs usually comes before the main verb (except for "be" verbs) or at the end of a sentence.
Meanings
Below are the common frequency adverbs arranged from most frequent to least frequent, along with their meanings:
- always — 100% of the time; every time
- usually — about 90% of the time; most of the time
- often — around 70–80% of the time
- sometimes — about 50% of the time; occasionally
- rarely — very infrequently; almost never
- never — 0% of the time; not at all
El adverbio de frecuencia en inglés que significa 'todo el tiempo' o '100% de las veces' es ___.
Which English frequency adverb means 'every time' or '100% of the time'?
always
'Always' means that something happens every time, or 100% of the time, which matches the description.
Usage
Placement in Affirmative Sentences
- Before the main verb (except “be”): “She always eats breakfast.”
- After “be” verbs: “He is usually on time.”
Placement in Negative and Question Sentences
- Negative: “She doesn’t often go out.”
- Question: “Do you sometimes work late?”
Where do frequency adverbs go in question sentences?
After the auxiliary verb
In questions, frequency adverbs usually follow the auxiliary verb (e.g., 'Do you sometimes work late?').
Placement at the Beginning or End of Sentences
- Beginning: “Sometimes, I walk to work.”
- End: “I go to the gym often.”
Examples
| English Example | English Example |
|---|---|
| I always drink coffee in the morning. | I always drink coffee in the morning. |
| She usually takes the bus to school. | She usually takes the bus to school. |
| We often eat out on Fridays. | We often eat out on Fridays. |
| He sometimes forgets his keys. | He sometimes forgets his keys. |
| I rarely watch TV during the week. | I rarely watch TV during the week. |
| They never smoke. | They never smoke. |
Common Questions
Can frequency adverbs be used with all verb tenses?
Yes, frequency adverbs can be used with most verb tenses, but they are most common in simple tenses (present simple and past simple) to describe routines or habits.
- Present simple: “She always arrives early.”
- Past simple: “I often visited my grandmother.”
Can multiple frequency adverbs be used in one sentence?
No, it is not grammatically correct to use more than one frequency adverb in the same clause.
- ❌ “I always usually go to the gym.”
- ✅ “I usually go to the gym.”
Can frequency adverbs be used with modal verbs?
Yes, frequency adverbs usually come after modal verbs.
- “She can sometimes be late.”
- “You should always check your work.”
Summary
Frequency adverbs are essential for talking about routines, habits, and how often actions occur. Common adverbs include “always,” “usually,” “often,” “sometimes,” “rarely,” and “never.” They typically come before the main verb (except “be”) or after “be” verbs, and can also appear at the beginning or end of sentences. Be mindful not to use more than one frequency adverb in the same clause.
Last updated: Thu Jun 5, 2025
