Adverbs of Frequency

Learn how to use adverbs of frequency: always, often, sometimes and never.
Sound Grammar

Adverbs of Frequency

Watch four conversations using the grammar on elllo.org.

Answer the following grammar questions.

Adverbs of Frequency

Point 1: We use adverbs of frequency to show how often we do something.
  1. I always have coffee in the morning.
  2. I usually eat dinner at home.
  3. I sometimes eat at restaurants.
  4. I never drink alcohol.
Point 2: Adverbs of frequency show different levels of how often something happens.
  1. Always – 100%
  2. Almost always – 90%+
  3. Usually – about 80%
  4. Often – about 60-70%
  5. Sometimes – about 50%
  6. Hardly ever / Rarely – about 10%
  7. Almost never – about 5%
  8. Never – 0%
Point 3: Adverbs of frequency usually come before the main verb.
  1. Thomas almost always paints in the evening.
  2. She usually gets to work early.
  3. We hardly ever rent movies.
  4. I never stay out late.
Point 4: When using the verb be, the adverb of frequency comes after the verb.
  1. He is usually late.
  2. They are often on time.
  3. I am sometimes tired in the morning.
  4. My dog is always happy to see me.
Point 5: Adverbs like sometimes, usually, and often can also go at the beginning or end of the sentence.
  • Usually, I read before bed.
    • I read before bed usually.
  • Often I go there.
    • I go there often.
  • Sometimes, I play tennis at night.
    • I play tennis at night sometimes.

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