Occasionally: meaning, definitions and examples

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occasionally

[əˈkeɪʒ(ə)nəli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in daily life

Sometimes, but not often; infrequently

Synonyms

infrequently, now and then, sometimes.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
occasionally	Use 'occasionally' to indicate something that happens from time to time, but not regularly. It's often used for neutral or positive situations. I occasionally go for a walk in the park. She visits us occasionally.
sometimes	'Sometimes' indicates something that happens occasionally but not consistently. It can be used in a wide variety of contexts. Sometimes I read books before bed. He sometimes forgets his keys.
infrequently	'Infrequently' suggests that something occurs rarely and is less common. It is often used in more formal contexts. The bus service runs infrequently on weekends. He infrequently checks his email.
now and then	Use 'now and then' in casual or conversational speech to describe something that happens at irregular intervals but not often. I like to bake cookies now and then. She writes letters to her old friends now and then.

Examples of usage

He occasionally drinks coffee in the morning.
She visits her parents occasionally on weekends.
They go out for dinner occasionally to celebrate special occasions.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

in formal writing

At times; from time to time

Synonyms

intermittently, periodically, sporadically.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
occasionally	Use this word when describing something that happens from time to time without a regular pattern. It's often used in casual conversations. He occasionally goes to the gym She occasionally eats out at fancy restaurants
periodically	Use this term to describe something that happens at regular, predictable intervals, such as daily, weekly, or monthly. The company conducts safety trainings periodically I visit my hometown periodically
intermittently	This word is best used when describing something that starts and stops at irregular intervals. It carries a slightly technical or formal tone. The internet connection works intermittently The pain comes and goes intermittently
sporadically	Best used for events that occur randomly and infrequently without any predictable pattern. It can sometimes imply a sense of unpredictability or rarity. He checks his email sporadically Wildlife sightings occur sporadically in the region

Examples of usage

The company will occasionally offer promotions to its employees.
The professor occasionally travels abroad for research purposes.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'occasio', meaning 'opportunity' or 'fitting time'.
It started being used in Middle English in the late 14th century, evolving from the Latin root.

Everyday Use

Many people use 'occasionally' to describe habits, like exercising or eating out, indicating it's not a regular thing.
It often relates to frequency, often appearing in conversations about plans, like 'I occasionally visit my grandma.'

Psychology

Psychologists say that occasional rewards can enhance motivation, making the experience more enjoyable.
Events that happen occasionally can create anticipation, positively impacting mood and emotional states.

Pop Culture

The concept of occasional gatherings is popular in social media, with 'occasional brunches' becoming trendy among friends.
Songs and lyrics often refer to moments that happen occasionally, evoking nostalgia or fleeting happiness.

Science

In research, phenomena that occur occasionally are often termed 'sporadic', highlighting their unpredictable nature.
Studies suggest that certain behaviors, like exercise frequency, can have various health benefits when done occasionally.

Translations

Translations of the word "occasionally" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ocasionalmente

🇮🇳 कभी-कभी

🇩🇪 gelegentlich

🇮🇩 sesekali

🇺🇦 іноді

🇵🇱 czasami

🇯🇵 たまに

🇫🇷 occasionnellement

🇪🇸 ocasionalmente

🇹🇷 ara sıra

🇰🇷 가끔

🇸🇦 أحيانًا

🇨🇿 příležitostně

🇸🇰 príležitostne

🇨🇳 偶尔

🇸🇮 občasno

🇮🇸 stundum

🇰🇿 кейде

🇬🇪 ხანდახან

🇦🇿 bəzən

🇲🇽 ocasionalmente

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,631, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

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2628 establishing
2629 interior
2630 situated
2631 occasionally
2632 confined
2633 conversion
2634 threat
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