Grammar: Adverbs of Frequency

Adverbs of frequency play a crucial role in English by indicating how often an action occurs. They help convey the frequency with which an activity takes place, adding clarity and precision to your sentences. In this post, we’ll explore different types of adverbs of frequency and how to use them effectively.

1. What Are Adverbs of Frequency?

Adverbs of frequency answer the question “How often?” These adverbs describe how frequently an event happens, and they typically appear before the main verb but after the verb “to be.”

Examples:

• He always arrives on time.
• They are usually very friendly.

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2. Types of Adverbs of Frequency

Adverbs of frequency can be divided into two main categories: definite frequency and indefinite frequency.

a. Definite Frequency Adverbs

These adverbs specify an exact frequency and often appear at the beginning or end of a sentence. They give clear and precise information about how often something happens.

Examples include:

• Every day
• Once a week
• Twice a month

Examples in sentences:

• I exercise every day.
• She calls her parents twice a week.

b. Indefinite Frequency Adverbs

Indefinite adverbs of frequency are less specific. They indicate the likelihood or general frequency of an event without giving an exact number.

Examples include:

• Always (100% frequency)
• Usually (80%)
• Often (60%)
• Sometimes (50%)
• Occasionally (30%)
• Rarely (10%)
• Never (0%)

Examples in sentences:

• She always drinks coffee in the morning.
• We often go for walks after dinner.
• He rarely watches TV.

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3. Positioning of Adverbs of Frequency

The position of an adverb of frequency depends on the verb. Here are a few general rules:

• With most verbs (except “to be”), place the adverb of frequency before the main verb:
  • I usually go to bed early.
  • They often play tennis on weekends.
• With the verb “to be”, place the adverb after the verb:
  • She is always cheerful.
  • We are never late.
• In questions, adverbs of frequency are placed after the subject:
  • Do you always eat breakfast?
  • Is he often late?

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4. Common Mistakes with Adverbs of Frequency

a. Using Definite and Indefinite Adverbs Together

Avoid mixing a definite adverb of frequency with an indefinite one in the same sentence.

Incorrect: She always visits her grandma every weekend. Correct: She visits her grandma every weekend.

b. Wrong Placement in Negative Sentences

In negative sentences, adverbs of frequency should come before the main verb but after “not” or the auxiliary verb.

Incorrect: I don’t always forget my keys. Correct: I always forget my keys.

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5. Practice Makes Perfect

Here are a few sentences. Try inserting the correct adverb of frequency to complete the sentences:

1. I _______ eat vegetables for dinner. (occasionally)
2. They are _______ late to meetings. (never)
3. Do you _______ study English? (often)
4. She _______ drinks coffee in the morning. (always)
5. He _______ travels abroad for work. (rarely)

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Conclusion

Adverbs of frequency are an essential part of English grammar. Mastering them allows you to express how often something occurs, giving your communication precision. By practicing their usage, you’ll make your sentences clearer and more informative.