English grammar: Basic word order in sentences

What this grammar point covers

Basic word order in English means the typical sequence of words in a simple sentence: subject, verb, and object.

When to use it

Use this word order for most simple sentences in English, especially when you want to state facts, describe actions, or give information.

Key forms

• Subject + Verb (+ Object)
• Example: I eat apples.
• Subject + Verb (+ Adverb/Place/Time)
• Example: She works at home every day.

Examples

Tips

• Always start the sentence with the subject.
• Do not put the object before the verb in simple statements.
• Adverbs of time (like 'every day') usually go at the end.

Exceptions and edge cases

• In questions, the order changes: (Do/Does) + subject + verb.
• With some adverbs (like 'always'), they can go before the main verb.