1. What is an adverb?

An adverb describes a verb. It gives more

information about the verb.

2. What is an adverb of frequency?

An adverb of frequency answers

the question: How often (do you do something)? It is used to describe how many
times you do something.
I never remember to return my library books on time!

3) Indefinite Adverbs of Frequency

always
constantly
usually
normally
frequently
regularly
often
sometimes
occasionally
infrequently
seldom
rarely
hardly ever
never
(This is not a complete list! These are the most commonly used adverbs of frequency.)
*Indefinite adverbs usually go before the main verb
She rarely drinks.
I usually skip breakfast.
He often has to work late.
I have never smoked a cigarette.

Even when there is an auxiliary or helping verb in the sentence, the adverb of
frequency always goes after the auxiliary verb and before the main verb:
I have never eaten so much food in my life!
You cant always get what you want!
Exceptions:
a) Adverbs of frequency go after the verb be
He is always late for class!
She is constantly nagging me to lose weight.
My friend is rarely on time for anything.
b) Sometimes, occasionally, normally, and usually, can also go at the beginning or
end of a sentence:
Usually I exercise at night, not in the morning.
He likes to watch reality TV sometimes.
Occasionally she smokes a cigarette.
Normally I dont do this, but Ill make an exception for you!
c) Frequently, constantly, regularly and most other adverbs of frequency can also
go at the end of a sentence. (Always, rarely, and seldom, CANNOT go at the end of a
sentence.)
My mother calls me on the phone frequently.
I exercise regularly.
I drink water constantly.
She always complains about the weather.
d) Negative adverbs of frequency (e.g. rarely, seldom, never) are not used in negative
sentences or questions.
I rarely drink alcohol.

(Remember, you cant use double negatives/2 negative words in the same sentence in
English!)

4) Definite adverbs of frequency

Definite adverbs of frequency are more specific than indefinite adverbs of frequency.
daily
annually
every day / hour / month / year / etc.
all the time
most of the time
most mornings / afternoon / evenings
once in a while
once / twice / etc.
once a week
*Definite adverbs of frequency can go at the beginning or end of a sentence. They
never go in the middle of the sentence.
The cleaning staff cleans the hotel rooms daily.
I see her at the gym all the time.
Do you go to school every day?
~ No, I dont go to school every day?
He takes his kids to school most mornings.
Once in a while my mother babysits the kids.