📝 How to Use the Verb “To Be” with Adverbs (B1–B2 English)

One of the most common verbs in English is “to be” — and it's also one of the most important! But did you know that using it correctly with adverbs can make your English sound much more natural and accurate?

🔍 What is the Verb “To Be”?

The verb “to be” helps describe states, feelings, identity, time, and location. Its forms include:

• Present: am, is, are

• Past: was, were

• Perfect: has/have been

• Future: will be

Examples:

• She is a teacher.

• They were tired.

• We have been busy.

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🧠 Can You Use Adverbs with “To Be”?

Yes! Many adverbs work with the verb “to be.” These adverbs describe how, when, how often, or to what degree the state happens.

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🗂️ Common Types of Adverbs with “To Be”

1. Adverbs of Frequency

Tell how often something happens.

✅ Placement: after the verb “to be”

Examples:

• He is always late.

• They are never rude.

• She was often tired after work.

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2. Adverbs of Degree

Describe intensity or extent.

✅ Placement: before the adjective or past participle

Examples:

• I am completely ready.

• She is very happy.

• We were almost finished.

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3. Adverbs of Time

Tell when something happens.

✅ Placement: usually at the end of the sentence

Examples:

• They were at home yesterday.

• She is at the office now.

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4. Adverbs of Place

Tell where something happens.

✅ Placement: often at the end

Examples:

• The books are here.

• He was outside.

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⚠️ Common Mistakes

❌ He always is late.
✅ He is always late.

❌ She is very much tired.
✅ She is very tired.

❌ They were at the beach often.
✅ They were often at the beach.

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✏️ Quick Practice

Try completing these with the correct placement of the adverb:

1. I ___ (always) am happy. → ❌

2. She is ___ (really) excited. → ✅

3. They are ___ (often) in the kitchen. → ✅

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✅ Summary: Placement Rules

Adverb Type	Example	Placement
Frequency	He is always busy.	After “to be”
Degree	She is very tired.	Before adjective/participle
Time	He was at work yesterday.	Usually at the end
Place	The keys are here.	Usually at the end

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🎯 Final Tip

The verb “to be” is simple — but combining it with the right adverb in the right place can take your English to the next level. Keep practicing and pay attention to patterns when reading or listening to English!