Grammar - Adverbs of Time and Frequency

Compiled from Grammar Builder Book 3

The rules are:

1. Adverbs of time are often placed in these positions:

1. At the beginning of the sentence

Definite adverbs of time (now, today, tomorrow, tonight, yesterday)

·   Yesterday, we went for a movie.

Indefinite adverbs of time (afterwards, again, recently, suddenly)

·   Suddenly, it started to rain.

2. At the end of the sentence

Definite adverbs of time (now, today, tomorrow, tonight, yesterday)

·   I will be at the Wealth Summit tomorrow.

Indefinite adverbs of time (afterwards, again, early, late, recently, suddenly)

·   James was late.

3. Between the subject and the main verb

Indefinite adverbs of time (already, just, recently, suddenly)

·   They recently bought a new house.

4. Immediately after the verb ‘to be’ or a main verb

Indefinite adverbs of time (again, already, later, recently, suddenly)

·   Sally was suddenly whispering to her sister.

·   Zack arrived late for the party.

Compiled from Grammar Builder Book 3

2. Adverbs of frequency tell us how often something occurs. They are often placed in these positions:

1. At the beginning of the sentence (occasionally, often, sometimes, usually)

·   Sometimes my father goes out for a drink.

2. At the end of the sentence (frequently, occasionally, sometimes)

·   We bump into Sam at the gym frequently.

3. Between the subject and a main verb (always, often, usually, seldom, rarely, never)

·   She usually eats at the café near the office.

4. Immediately after the verb ‘to be’ (always, often, usually, seldom, rarely, never)

·   Tony is never late for anything.

3. An adverb of indefinite time or an adverb of frequency is usually placed after the first word in a verb group of two or more words.
• I have already finished my assignment.
• She has rarely seen anyone since the accident.

Compiled from Grammar Builder Book 3