How to spell frequently
A Year 5 and 6 statutory spelling word, with the tricky part explained and a tip that makes it stick.
The answer
frequently
F-R-E-Q-U-E-N-T-L-Y
The part to watch: frequent + ly. The underlined letters are the ones most people get wrong.
The tricky part
Frequently is frequent + ly. The ending of frequent is -ent, not -ant.
Frequently is one of the words on the Year 5 and 6 list with the -ly ending. Most of these words are made by adding -ly to a root word. Spell the root first, then add -ly. A root ending in -le swaps the -le for -ly, as probable becomes probably.
The root, frequent, does not change: just add -ly.
Common mistakes with frequently
- Wrong: frequantlyRight: frequently
- Wrong: frequentleyRight: frequently
A way to remember it
Frequent means often. Write frequent, then add ly.
Frequently in syllables
fre · quent · ly
Frequently has 3 syllables. Say each one as you write it.
In a sentence
Trains to the city run frequently.
Frequently on the statutory list
Frequently is on the Year 5 and 6 statutory word list in the national curriculum for England. Children are taught these words in Years 5 and 6, when they are 9 to 11.
Test yourself
A short spelling test that starts with frequently, then nine more words from the Year 5 and 6 list, read aloud. It works in your browser.
More words with the -ly ending
These words from the Year 5 and 6 list share the same pattern as frequently.
More words
Questions parents ask
How do you spell frequency?
The -ent of frequent changes to -ency: frequency.
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