I always vs I am always

by Azer Huseynov

What is the difference between:

1) I always late for school.
2) I am always late for school.
And can you show me some examples where I can choose to use " to be" or not.

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Hi Azer,

The difference is that the first one is incorrect and the second is correct. :)

You always need to use the verb "to be" in this case.

General Rule:
When always (seldom, frequently etc) is followed by an adjective, you need to use "to be" before always.

I am always tired after work.
I am always hungry when I wake up in the morning.
I am always nervous before taking an exam.

You don't need to use "to be" if always (seldom, frequently etc) is followed by a verb in the imperative form.

I always walk home.
I always eat in the office.
I always drive to work.

I hope this answers your question Azer.

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