When using the present simple tense, adverbs of frequency are used to express ‘how often’ we do something. Below you will see a list of the most common adverbs in order of frequency.
- always
- usually
- normally
- generally
- regularly
- often
- frequently
- sometimes
- occasionally
- rarely
- seldom
- never
Where is the Adverb Placed?
Usually the adverb is placed between the subject and the verb.
- I often have toast for breakfast.
- I sometimes watch football.
- He rarely does his homework.
- They never drink coffee after 6 pm.
- We normally go away in the summer.
When using the verb ‘to be’ the adverb is usually placed after the verb.
- Paul is usually late.
- David is never here.
- I am always hungry!
If more than one verb is used (auxiliary verb), the adverb is placed between the two verbs.
- I would usually go there.
- I don’t normally smoke.
- The students have often complained that they receive too much homework.
Note: Exception is ‘have to’. I often have to repeat the exercise.
Expressions
- Every now and then
- From time to time
- Every day/week/month/year
- Once a week/month/year
- Twice a day/year
- Three times a day/week/month/year
Expressions are placed at the beginning or at the end of the sentence.
- I study English every day.
- Every now and then I go to the gym.
- I eat three times a day.
- I go to the cinema from time to time.