An adverb of frequency (which differs from an adverb of time because it describes how often rather than when) tells you how often something happens — words like always, usually, often, sometimes, rarely, and never. They typically go right before the main verb, but after the verb "to be."
The Full Frequency Scale (100% to 0%)
| Adverb | Approx. Frequency |
|---|---|
| Always | 100% |
| Usually | ~90% |
| Often | ~70% |
| Sometimes | ~50% |
| Occasionally | ~30% |
| Rarely | ~10% |
| Never | 0% |
Where Does the Adverb Go?
Rule 1: Before the main verb.
- "She always arrives on time."
- "They often forget their keys."
Rule 2: After the verb "to be" (including forms like is, am, are, or past forms like was and were).
- "He is never late."
- "We are usually early."
Rule 3: After the first auxiliary verb (in compound tenses).
- "I have always wanted to visit Japan."
- "She has often mentioned that idea."
Common Mistake to Avoid
Don't place the adverb at the very start or end of the sentence in standard usage — "Always she arrives on time" is incorrect. Reserve sentence-initial placement ("Sometimes, I forget") for emphasis in informal writing only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between "usually" and "always"?
"Always" implies 100% of the time with no exceptions, while "usually" implies most of the time but allows for occasional exceptions.
Can you use two adverbs of frequency together?
Generally no — combining them ("always often") is grammatically incorrect. Choose the single word that best fits the intended frequency.
Is "sometimes" formal or informal?
"Sometimes" is neutral and works in both formal and informal writing, unlike more casual alternatives like "every once in a while."
💡 The Takeaway
Remember the split rule: before the main verb, but after "to be" or the first auxiliary. Get that placement right and the rest is just vocabulary.
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