Frequency Adverbs

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The most common frequency adverbs in English are: Always Frequently Usually Often Sometimes Occasionally Seldom Rarely Never 100% of the time about 90% of the time about 80% of the time about 70% of the time about 50% of the time about 40% of the time about 20% of the time about 10% of the time about 00% of the time Note: The percentages here are rough estimates only. Frequency adverbs can be placed at various points in the sentence, but are most commonly used before the main verbs and after be verbs. I always come to work on time. They are seldom home when we call. He's usually eating breakfast at this time. She's never been to Maine. A: Do you come here often? B: Yes. I'm here occasionally. A: What do you usually do here? B: Sometimes I just sit and ponder the meaning of life. Note: The adverbs seldom, rarely, never and hardly ever are considered negative. A: Do you always carry a briefcase? B: (Yes,) I usually do. No, I usually don't. No, I rarely do. No, I hardly ever do. Other frequency adverbs and expressions are as follows: Every day/week/month Every other day/week Once a week/month/year Twice a year/day, etc. (Every) once in a while Every so often These expressions are used at the beginning and end of sentences, not before main verbs. Every once in a while I visit my grandmother in Minnesota. I visit my grandmother in Minnesota every once in a while. I every once in a while visit my grandmother in Minnesota. (Incorrect) Regularly Normally Traditionally (according to schedule) (commonly nowadays) (commonly in the past) These words can come at various points in the sentence. I regularly floss my teeth. I floss my teeth regularly. Traditionally, that was considered child's play. I normally get up around 6 o'clock. Normally, I get up around 6 o'clock.

See also: Common Adverbs

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