An adverb of frequency explains how often something happened.
Here are some examples of adverbs of frequency:
always |
constantly |
frequently |
often |
rarely |
repeatedly |
seldomly |
sometimes |
usually |
Here’s a diagram of how often things happen:



Adverbs of frequency can go anywhere in a sentence. The placement of the adverb does not affect the general meaning of the sentence.
For example:

However, the adverbs of frequency always, ever and never, shouldn’t be placed at the beginning of a sentence.
Adequate use of always, ever and never |
Improper use of always, ever and never |
Margaret is always hungry. |
Always is Margaret hungry. |
This is the best day ever! |
Ever this is the best day! |
She could never swim fast. |
Never could she swim fast. |
Margaret, the character used in the examples, was inspired by the Canadian author Margaret Atwood. To learn more about her extraordinary life and work, visit this website.