Adverb of Time: Definition, Examples & Rules | English Grammar
Last Updated: 01 Jul, 2025
Welcome! In this lesson, you'll learn all about Adverbs of Time in English grammar. We'll cover what they are, how to use them, and why they're important. You'll find real-life examples, a quick quiz, and pro tips to help you master this essential grammar topic.
What is an Adverb of Time?
Adverb of Time Definition: An adverb of time tells us when something happens, how often, or for how long. These adverbs answer questions like when?, how long?, and how often?
Why are Adverbs of Time Important? They help us give clear information about the timing of actions and events in our sentences.
Function in Grammar
Adverbs of time modify verbs to tell us when, how long, or how often something happens. For example:
- She will visit tomorrow. (when?)
- He has lived here since 2010. (how long?)
- We go to the park every Saturday. (how often?)
Adverb of Time vs Adverb of Place
| Adverb of Time | Adverb of Place |
|---|---|
| yesterday | here |
| now | there |
| soon | everywhere |
| always | outside |
An adverb of time tells us when, while an adverb of place tells us where.
📌 Adverb of Time Challenge!
Can you spot the adverbs of time in these sentences?
- We will leave soon.
- She called yesterday.
- He always wakes up early.
Show Answers
- soon
- yesterday
- always
Examples of Adverbs of Time in Sentences
- She will visit tomorrow.
- He has lived here since 2010.
- We go to the park every Saturday.
- I saw him yesterday.
- They are leaving now.
- He always wakes up early.
- We will leave soon.
- She called yesterday.
- He will return later.
- We have been friends for years.
Notice how each adverb of time tells us when, how long, or how often something happens.
List of Common Adverbs of Time
- yesterday
- today
- tomorrow
- now
- then
- soon
- later
- already
- still
- yet
- always
- never
- often
- sometimes
- usually
- frequently
- recently
- lately
- since
- for
- ever
- just
- eventually
- immediately
Adverb of Time Usage
| Adverb | Question Answered | Example |
|---|---|---|
| yesterday | When? | She called yesterday. |
| since | How long? | He has lived here since 2010. |
| always | How often? | He always wakes up early. |
| soon | When? | We will leave soon. |
Adverbs of time answer questions about when, how long, or how often.
Special Rules and Notes
- Placement: Adverbs of time usually come at the end of a sentence, but can be placed at the beginning for emphasis.
- Order: If there is more than one adverb, the order is: manner, place, time.
- Frequency: Adverbs of frequency (always, never, often) usually come before the main verb.
- Questions: Use adverbs of time to ask and answer questions about when, how long, or how often.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an adverb of time?
An adverb of time tells us when something happens. Examples include now, yesterday, today, tomorrow, soon, already, never, always, often, and sometimes. They answer the question "when?"
Where do adverbs of time go in a sentence?
Adverbs of time can go at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence. They often go at the end: "She arrived yesterday" or at the beginning for emphasis: "Yesterday, she arrived".
What are some examples of adverbs of time?
Common adverbs of time include: now, then, yesterday, today, tomorrow, soon, later, early, late, already, still, yet, never, always, often, sometimes, recently, and eventually.
What is the difference between adverbs of time and adverbs of frequency?
Adverbs of time tell us when something happens (yesterday, now), while adverbs of frequency tell us how often something happens (always, sometimes).
Can you use multiple adverbs of time in one sentence?
Yes, but be careful not to make the sentence confusing. For example: "She arrived early yesterday" uses both "early" and "yesterday" to give specific time information.
What questions do adverbs of time answer?
Adverbs of time answer questions like "when?", "how long?", and "how often?" about the action in the sentence.
Conclusion
Adverbs of time help us talk about when, how long, or how often something happens. Practice using them to make your sentences clearer and more interesting!