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Inversion happens when we reverse (invert) the normal word order of a structure, most
commonly the subject-verb word order. For example, a statement has the subject (s)
before the verb (v), but to make question word order, we invert the subject and the
verb, with an auxiliary (aux) or modal verb (m) before the subject (s):
[S]She [V]sings.
The most common type of inversion is question word order (see above). Inversion also
happens in other situations.
Negative adverbs
In formal styles, when we use an adverb with negative meaning (e.g. never, seldom,
rarely, scarcely, hardly) in front position for emphasis, we invert the subject (s) and
auxiliary (aux)/modal verb:
Seldom does one hear a politician say ‘sorry’. (or One seldom hears …)
Not for a moment did I think I would be offered the job, so I was amazed when I got it.
She looked out and there was Pamela, walking along arm in arm with Goldie.