from time to time
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adverb: At intervals; not continuously or constantly; happening or done occasionally.
Usage
This phrase is used to describe actions or events that occur intermittently, with breaks in between. It emphasizes the sporadic, non-regular nature of an occurrence.
Examples
- I like to check in on my old friends from time to time.
- From time to time, the manager reviews the team's progress.
- Even though we live far apart, we call each other from time to time.
Advanced Usage
- The phrase can often be placed at the beginning or the end of a clause without changing the meaning.
- From time to time, he enjoys a long walk in the park.
- He enjoys a long walk in the park from time to time.
- It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to soften the frequency of an action, implying it is not a routine.
Variants and Related Words
- Occasionally (adv.): At infrequent or irregular intervals.
- Now and then (adv.): From time to time; occasionally.
- Now and again (adv.): Another way to say "now and then."
- Once in a while (adv.): Occasionally; not often.
- On occasion (adv.): Sometimes, but not regularly.
Synonyms
- Occasionally
- Sometimes
- Periodically
- Intermittently
- Sporadically
Antonyms
- Constantly
- Continuously
- Always
- Regularly
- Never
Related Idioms
- Every so often: Occasionally; at intervals.
- Every so often, she treats herself to a fancy dinner.
- At times: On some occasions; sometimes.
- At times, the software can be a bit slow.
Adverb
- now and then or here and there
- he was arrogant and occasionally callous
- open areas are only occasionally interrupted by clumps of trees
- they visit New York on occasion
- now and again she would take her favorite book from the shelf and read to us
- as we drove along, the beautiful scenery now and then attracted his attention