Asking about frequency

The idea

Use how often with do or does and a base verb, or put a form of be before the subject. Answer with an adverb or a phrase such as twice a week.

Examples

• How often do you visit the market?
• I go there twice a week.
• How often does the library close early?
• It usually closes early on Fridays.
• How often are the buses late?
• They are rarely late.

Watch out

Do not confuse how often with how long: one asks about frequency, the other about duration.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the correct option. How ___ do you water the plants? (often / long)

   Show answer or example answer

   often

   often asks about frequency rather than duration.

2. Choose the correct option. How often ___ Sam take the ferry? (does / is)

   Show answer or example answer

   does

   does fits the singular subject Sam; the main verb remains take.

3. Choose the correct option. The train is ___ late. (sometimes / twice)

   Show answer or example answer

   sometimes

   sometimes describes how frequently the train is late.

Use it today

Ask a friend about a habit and answer with a frequency.