Yes, “often” is an adverb. It modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs to indicate frequency.
Uses of “Often” as an Adverb:
- Modifying a Verb (Indicating Frequency)
- She often eats at that restaurant.
- They often update the menu to include seasonal dishes.
- Modifying an Adjective
- His recommendations are often helpful.
- The chef’s specials are often unique.
- Modifying Another Adverb
- She arrives quite often for lunch.
- They update the system more often than expected.
Why “Often” Is Not a Preposition
- Prepositions (e.g., in, on, under, about) show relationships between words.
- “Often” does not establish a relationship between a noun/pronoun and another word; it modifies verbs, adjectives, or adverbs, making it an adverb.
Thus, “often” is an adverb, not a preposition.