spasmodic

/spæz'mɔdik/ Cách viết khác : (spasmodical) /spæz'mɔdikəl/

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Word: Spasmodic

Part of Speech: Adjective

Basic Definition: The word "spasmodic" describes something that happens suddenly, in bursts, or in irregular intervals, often related to sudden movements or actions. It can also refer to something that is not continuous and may happen unexpectedly.

Usage Instructions:

You can use "spasmodic" to describe actions, movements, or even feelings that happen suddenly and are not steady or consistent.

Example Sentences:

1. The child had spasmodic fits of laughter during the funny movie, laughing loudly for a few seconds and then stopping.
2. The spasmodic movements of the dancer added an interesting effect to her performance, making it seem both exciting and unpredictable.

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "spasmodic" can refer to conditions in medical discussions, like spasmodic dysphonia, which is a voice disorder characterized by involuntary spasms of the vocal cords.

Word Variants:

• Spasm (noun): A sudden involuntary muscular contraction.
• Spasmodically (adverb): In a spasmodic manner; occurring in bursts or irregularly.

Different Meanings:

1. Physical Context: Involuntary muscle contractions, such as a spasm in the leg or back.
2. Figurative Context: Actions or emotions that are sudden and not consistent, like a spasmodic effort to study when preparing for exams.

Synonyms:

• Intermittent
• Irregular
• Fitful
• Erratic
• Sudden

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While "spasmodic" does not have direct idioms or phrasal verbs associated with it, you might encounter phrases like "in fits and starts," which convey a similar meaning of something occurring irregularly or in bursts.

Summary:

"Spasmodic" describes something happening suddenly and irregularly, often with bursts of energy or movement.

Academic

Adjective

1. occurring in spells and often abruptly
   • fitful bursts of energy
   • spasmodic rifle fire
2. affected by involuntary jerky muscular contractions; resembling a spasm
   • convulsive motions
   • his body made a spasmodic jerk
   • spastic movements

Synonyms

• fitful
• convulsive
• spastic