Frequency adverbs like always, usually, often, sometimes, never go before the main verb: I often work late. But after be: She is always late. And after the first auxiliary: I have never been to Japan. You can always call me.
I often work late.
The adverb sits in its own slot between the subject and the main verb, never between the verb and the object.
| Before the main verb | I usually take the bus. |
|---|---|
| After be | He is never on time. |
| After the first auxiliary | I have always wanted to go. She doesn't often call. |
| At the start (some adverbs) | Sometimes I walk to work. Usually we eat at 7. |
| Other mid-position adverbs | already, still, just, also, probably: She still lives here. |
She always drinks tea.
With most verbs, the adverb goes right before the verb.
He is often late.
Be is the exception: the adverb comes after it.
I have never seen snow.
With have, can, will and others, the adverb goes after the first auxiliary.
She still lives here.
These adverbs take the same slot: before the main verb, or after be.
Common expressions worth learning as they are.
I _____ coffee in the morning.
The sentence skeleton, and every word-order lesson.
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Yes: Sometimes I walk to work. I walk to work sometimes. Usually and often can also start a sentence. Always and never normally can't.
Be works like an auxiliary, so the adverb comes after it: She is always late, just as in She has always been late.