Adverbs of Frequency helps you communicate about how often actions and states occur. Start with the meaning, notice the pattern, and then use it in complete sentences.
By the end of this lesson, you can
- I can position frequency adverbs and expressions correctly.
- Recognise and build the form: frequency adverb before main verb but after be; frequency expression at clause boundary.
- Use the pattern accurately in a meaningful sentence.
Meaning and use
Use Adverbs of Frequency for how often actions and states occur. Always read the whole situation before choosing the form: grammar expresses a meaning, not only a pattern.
I usually check my email before breakfast.
A frequency adverb normally comes before the main verb.
She is never late for work.
A frequency adverb comes after the verb 'be'.
They often go hiking at weekends.
Place 'often' before the main verb 'go'.
frequency adverb before main verb but after be; frequency expression at clause boundaryKeep this pattern visible while you study the examples. Then cover it and rebuild one example from memory.
Key rules to notice
These rules explain why the form is correct. Focus on the subject, auxiliary, verb form, word order and time or meaning clues.
- A frequency adverb normally comes before the main verb.
- A frequency adverb comes after the verb 'be'.
- Place 'often' before the main verb 'go'.
- 'Twice a month' is a complete frequency expression.
- Use 'sometimes' before the main verb to describe occasional frequency.
Common mistakes
Not:I yesterday check my email before breakfast.
Use:I usually check my email before breakfast.
A frequency adverb normally comes before the main verb.
Not:She is every day late for work.
Use:She is never late for work.
A frequency adverb comes after the verb 'be'.
Not:They ago go hiking at weekends.
Use:They often go hiking at weekends.
Place 'often' before the main verb 'go'.
Check before you practise
Complete each sentence mentally, then reveal the answer.
We have meetings twice ____.
a month
'Twice a month' is a complete frequency expression.
He ____ forgets his password.
sometimes
Use 'sometimes' before the main verb to describe occasional frequency.
The buses are ____ crowded at this time.
always
Place 'always' after the verb 'are'.