Frequency adverbs in German (known as Adverbien der Häufigkeit) describe how often an action takes place. They are essential for expressing routines, habits, and the regularity of events. Common frequency adverbs include:
- immer (always)
- meistens (mostly)
- oft (often)
- manchmal (sometimes)
- selten (rarely)
- nie (never)
Usage and Placement
Frequency adverbs typically appear:
- Directly before the main verb in a simple sentence:
Er liest immer. (He always reads.)
- After the first auxiliary or modal verb in compound tenses:
Sie hat oft gegessen. (She has often eaten.)
- Between the conjugated verb and the infinitive in verb final clauses:
Er wird manchmal kommen. (He will sometimes come.)
Frequency adverbs are placed before the main verb in a simple sentence.
Bald is not a frequency adverb; it means 'soon'.
Frequency adverbs are placed after the auxiliary or modal verb in compound tenses.
Examples:
| German | English |
|---|---|
| Ich esse immer Frühstück. | I always eat breakfast. |
| Wir sehen uns manchmal. | We sometimes see each other. |
| Er hat oft gewonnen. | He has often won. |
| Du wirst selten müde. | You will rarely be tired. |
'Manchmal' means 'sometimes' and is a frequency adverb.
Frequency adverbs go before the main verb, or after a modal/auxiliary verb if present.
Conclusion
Frequency adverbs are vital for expressing how often actions occur, making your descriptions more precise and natural.
- Use adverbs like immer, oft, manchmal, and nie to indicate regularity.
- Place them before the main verb in simple sentences, and after auxiliary verbs in compound tenses.
- Mastering their correct placement enhances fluency and comprehension in German conversation.