Talking about routines using frequency adverbs

Adverbs of frequency are used to show the frequency with which we perform actions. One of the most common uses of frequency adverbs is to talk about our habits.

When talking about our routine activities, we usually use these adverbs with the simple present tense. The most common frequency adverbs are: always, never, usually, sometimes, frequently, often and seldom.

• We often go for long drives.
• I am seldom late for work.
• She never invites us to her parties.
• She sometimes comes to see me.
• They never admit their fault.
• I usually go to work by car.

Position

Frequency adverbs usually go in the middle. If there is an auxiliary verb, the frequency adverb goes after the auxiliary verb and before the main verb.

• I have always wanted to be a writer. (Here the frequency adverb goes after the auxiliary verb have and the main verb wanted.)

If there is no auxiliary verb, the frequency adverb goes before the main verb.

• I never thought it possible. (NOT I thought never it possible.)

Adverbs of frequency go after the verb be.

• He is seldom late for work. (NOT He seldom is late for work.)

Note that the adverbs usually, normally, often, frequently, sometimes and occasionally can also go at the beginning or at the end of a sentence.

• Usually I go to office by bus. OR I usually go to office by bus.