Adverbs of frequency are an essential part of the English language. They help us describe how often something happens, giving our sentences more context and detail. Understanding and using adverbs of frequency correctly can significantly improve your fluency and comprehension. In this article, we will explore what adverbs of frequency are, how to use them, their placement in sentences, and some common mistakes to avoid.
What Are Adverbs of Frequency?
Adverbs of frequency are words that tell us how often an action occurs. They can describe actions that happen regularly, occasionally, or rarely. These adverbs can be broadly categorized into two types: *definite* and *indefinite*.
Definite Adverbs of Frequency
Definite adverbs of frequency specify an exact amount of time. Examples include:
– Daily
– Weekly
– Monthly
– Yearly
– Annually
For example:
– She visits her grandmother *daily*.
– The team meets *weekly* to discuss the project.
Indefinite Adverbs of Frequency
Indefinite adverbs of frequency do not specify an exact time. Instead, they give a general idea of how often something happens. Common indefinite adverbs of frequency include:
– Always
– Usually
– Often
– Sometimes
– Rarely
– Never
For example:
– He *always* brushes his teeth before bed.
– They *sometimes* go hiking on weekends.
Placement of Adverbs of Frequency
The placement of adverbs of frequency in a sentence can vary, but there are some general rules to follow.
With Simple Tenses
In simple tenses (present simple, past simple, future simple), adverbs of frequency usually come before the main verb but after the verb “to be.”
For example:
– She *often* reads books before bed. (before the main verb)
– They are *always* on time. (after the verb “to be”)
With Auxiliary Verbs
When there are auxiliary verbs in the sentence (such as have, will, do, can), the adverb of frequency comes after the auxiliary verb and before the main verb.
For example:
– He *has never* missed a class.
– She *can usually* complete her work on time.
At the Beginning or End of a Sentence
Sometimes, adverbs of frequency can be placed at the beginning or end of a sentence for emphasis, although this is less common.
For example:
– *Sometimes*, I take a walk in the evening.
– I take a walk in the evening *sometimes*.
Common Adverbs of Frequency and Their Usage
Let’s take a closer look at some common adverbs of frequency and how they are used in sentences.
Always
“Always” indicates that something happens 100% of the time. It is used to describe actions that are consistent and never change.
For example:
– She *always* takes her coffee with sugar.
– He *always* arrives early to meetings.
Usually
“Usually” means that something happens more often than not, but not always. It suggests a high frequency but allows for occasional exceptions.
For example:
– They *usually* eat dinner at 7 PM.
– She *usually* goes to the gym after work.
Often
“Often” indicates a frequent occurrence but not as high as “usually.” It suggests regularity but with more room for variability.
For example:
– He *often* listens to music while working.
– We *often* visit the park on weekends.
Sometimes
“Sometimes” indicates that something happens occasionally, but not regularly. It suggests a moderate frequency.
For example:
– She *sometimes* forgets her keys.
– They *sometimes* watch movies together.
Rarely
“Rarely” means that something happens infrequently. It suggests a low frequency and implies that the action is not common.
For example:
– He *rarely* eats fast food.
– They *rarely* go out during the week.
Never
“Never” indicates that something does not happen at all. It suggests a 0% occurrence.
For example:
– She *never* smokes.
– He *never* skips breakfast.
Common Mistakes with Adverbs of Frequency
Despite their simplicity, adverbs of frequency can sometimes be tricky to use correctly. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Incorrect Placement
One of the most common mistakes is placing the adverb of frequency in the wrong part of the sentence. Remember, in simple tenses, it should come before the main verb but after the verb “to be.”
Incorrect: She reads *often* books before bed.
Correct: She *often* reads books before bed.
Incorrect: They *always* are on time.
Correct: They are *always* on time.
Using Multiple Adverbs of Frequency
Avoid using multiple adverbs of frequency in the same sentence, as this can make the sentence confusing and redundant.
Incorrect: She *always* *sometimes* forgets her keys.
Correct: She *sometimes* forgets her keys.
Overusing Adverbs of Frequency
While adverbs of frequency are useful, overusing them can make your writing repetitive and monotonous. Try to vary your sentence structure and use other ways to describe frequency when possible.
Incorrect: She *always* goes to the gym. She *always* eats healthy. She *always* sleeps early.
Correct: She *always* goes to the gym, eats healthy, and sleeps early.
Practice Exercises
To help reinforce your understanding of adverbs of frequency, here are some practice exercises. Try to complete them and check your answers.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Choose the correct adverb of frequency to complete each sentence.
1. He __________ (always/never) takes a shower in the morning.
2. They __________ (often/never) visit their grandparents on Sundays.
3. She __________ (rarely/usually) eats breakfast.
4. We __________ (sometimes/always) go to the beach in the summer.
5. I __________ (often/never) watch TV before bed.
Exercise 2: Correct the Mistakes
Identify and correct the mistakes in the following sentences.
1. They are often late always.
2. She sometimes goes to the gym always.
3. He never eats sometimes fast food.
4. We always are on time.
5. I read often books before bed.
Exercise 3: Rewrite the Sentences
Rewrite the following sentences using a different adverb of frequency.
1. She always drinks coffee in the morning.
2. He sometimes forgets his homework.
3. They rarely go out to eat.
4. We usually take the bus to work.
5. I often read before bed.
Answers
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
1. He *always* takes a shower in the morning.
2. They *often* visit their grandparents on Sundays.
3. She *rarely* eats breakfast.
4. We *sometimes* go to the beach in the summer.
5. I *never* watch TV before bed.
Exercise 2: Correct the Mistakes
1. They are *always* late.
2. She *always* goes to the gym.
3. He *never* eats fast food.
4. We are *always* on time.
5. I *often* read books before bed.
Exercise 3: Rewrite the Sentences
1. She *usually* drinks coffee in the morning.
2. He *often* forgets his homework.
3. They *sometimes* go out to eat.
4. We *often* take the bus to work.
5. I *sometimes* read before bed.
Conclusion
Adverbs of frequency are a fundamental part of the English language, providing essential information about how often actions occur. By understanding their definitions, placements, and common usages, you can enhance your speaking and writing skills. Remember to practice regularly and pay attention to the placement of adverbs of frequency in sentences to avoid common mistakes. With time and practice, you will become more confident in using these adverbs effectively. Happy learning!
