Definition

Adverb: In an irregular, intermittent, or inconsistent manner; with periods of activity followed by periods of inactivity or idleness.

Usage

This adverb describes an action that is not steady or continuous. It emphasizes a pattern of sporadic effort, progress, or occurrence. It is typically used to modify verbs that describe work, progress, or any ongoing activity.

Examples

• The project advanced by fits and starts, depending on when funding was available.
• She studied by fits and starts, cramming for a week and then doing nothing for a month.
• The old car would run by fits and starts, often stalling at traffic lights.

Advanced Usage

• The phrase often carries a slightly negative or critical connotation, implying that the progress is inefficient, unreliable, or insufficient due to its irregular nature.
• It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Variants and Related Words

• Fitfully (adverb): In an irregular or intermittent way. This is a close single-word synonym.
  • He slept fitfully throughout the night.
• Intermittently (adverb): At irregular intervals; not continuously or steadily.
  • The rain fell intermittently all afternoon.

Synonyms

• Intermittently
• Sporadically
• Erratically
• Fitfully
• In stops and starts

Antonyms

• Steadily
• Continuously
• Regularly
• Constantly

Adverb

1. intermittently
   • he worked on his book by fits and starts