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Fortnightly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fortnightly

[หˆfษ”หtหŒnaษชtli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

frequency

Happening every two weeks or twice a month.

Synonyms

biweekly, every two weeks.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fortnightly

Used mainly in British English to describe something happening every two weeks.

  • They have a fortnightly meeting to discuss the project's progress.
  • The magazine is published fortnightly.
biweekly

This can be used in both British and American English to describe something happening every two weeks, but can sometimes be confusing as it can also mean twice a week. Clarification may be needed based on the context.

  • We receive biweekly reports on sales figures.
  • The team has biweekly check-ins.
every two weeks

This is the most straightforward and unambiguous way to describe something occurring every 14 days. Suitable for any context where clarity is important.

  • They deliver groceries every two weeks.
  • We get paid every two weeks.

Examples of usage

  • It is a fortnightly meeting.
  • She receives her salary fortnightly.
  • They publish a fortnightly magazine.
Context #2 | Adjective

schedule

Occurring or appearing once every two weeks.

Synonyms

biweekly, every two weeks.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fortnightly

This term is often used in British English to describe something that occurs every two weeks. It can be used in formal or casual contexts.

  • The magazine is published fortnightly
  • We have a fortnightly team meeting
biweekly

This word can be confusing because it might mean either twice a week or every two weeks. However, in many English-speaking countries, it's often understood to mean every two weeks. Clarification is usually required to avoid misunderstanding.

  • They receive their pay biweekly
  • Our biweekly check-ins help keep the project on track
every two weeks

This phrase is very clear and unambiguous, making it suitable for any context where you want to specify an event occurring every two weeks. It's common in both formal and informal settings.

  • The gardener visits every two weeks
  • The report is updated every two weeks

Examples of usage

  • We have a fortnightly cleaning schedule.
  • The magazine is published on a fortnightly basis.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In the UK, many publications and events are described as 'fortnightly,' indicating a traditional timeline for releases and meetings.
  • The 'fortnight' is often utilized in schools, where reporting or assignments may be due every two weeks, helping structure students' time.

Publication Frequency

  • Fortnightly magazines and journals are popular in various disciplines. They provide a rhythm for writers and editors, ensuring that content is refreshed consistently.
  • This term is also important in broadcasting, where certain radio or TV programs air every two weeks to keep audiences engaged.

Mathematics and Planning

  • In project management, tasks can be planned on a fortnightly basis to break down large objectives into manageable goals.
  • Fortnightly planning is advantageous as it allows for the shipment of goods, making it easier to track progress in logistics.

Origin of 'fortnightly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'fortnight' comes from the Old English term 'fฤ“owertyne niht,' which literally means 'fourteen nights.'
  • It became commonly used in English-speaking countries to denote a two-week period since the 16th century.

The word 'fortnightly' originated from the Old English word 'feowertiene niht', which means 'fourteen nights'. It has been used in the English language for centuries to refer to events or occurrences happening every two weeks. The term became popular in the 19th century and is commonly used in various contexts to describe biweekly schedules or publications.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,951, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.