Periodically Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
⏰
periodically
[ˌpɪər.iˈɑː.dɪ.kli ]
Definitions
regularly
At regular intervals of time; from time to time.
Synonyms
intermittently, regularly, sporadically.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| periodically |
Used to describe something that happens at regular intervals or from time to time.
|
| regularly |
Implies something that happens with a consistent, predictable frequency.
|
| intermittently |
Describes something that happens at irregular intervals, not consistently.
|
| sporadically |
Refers to something that happens infrequently and irregularly, often unpredictably.
|
Examples of usage
- He checked his phone periodically throughout the day.
- The company conducts performance reviews periodically to assess employee progress.
science
In a periodic manner; following a regular pattern.
Synonyms
consistently, regularly, systematically.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| periodically |
Use this when something occurs at irregular intervals or from time to time.
|
| regularly |
Ideal for describing events that happen at fixed intervals or schedules.
|
| systematically |
Best used when something is done according to a method or plan, often in an organized and efficient way.
|
| consistently |
This is suitable for situations where actions or behaviors happen in a steady and uniform manner.
|
Examples of usage
- The element exhibits properties that change periodically with its atomic number.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In chemistry, elements are arranged in the periodic table based on similar properties, highlighting their periodic behaviors.
- The concept of radioactivity involves periodic decay, where unstable atoms change into stable ones at regular intervals.
- In physics, periodic motion is when objects move in a repeated cycle, like a swinging pendulum.
Culture
- Artists often create periodic events, such as seasonal festivals, which celebrate times of the year.
- In music, periodically reoccurring themes make songs memorable, creating familiar patterns for listeners.
- Television shows often have periodic seasons, releasing new episodes at regular intervals each year.
Psychology
- People often use periodic routines, like studying or exercising, to create structure and improve productivity.
- Mood changes can occur periodically too, influenced by seasons or significant life events.
- The concept of periodic reinforcement in psychology relates to how behaviors are strengthened through regular rewards.
Literature
- Writers may use periodic sentences to create suspense, holding off the main point until the end of the sentence.
- Certain themes appear periodically in literature, reflecting timeless human experiences or emotions.
- Books sometimes release periodic sequels, engaging readers over time with familiar characters and plots.
Origin of 'periodically'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek 'periodos', meaning 'a going round', showing how things cycle back.
- It was first used in English in the mid-19th century, related to regular events or occurrences.
- Many scientific terms use ‘periodic’ to describe something that happens in cycles, like the phases of the moon.
The word 'periodically' originates from the word 'periodic', which comes from the Latin word 'periodicus' and the Greek word 'periodikos'. The concept of periodicity has been observed in various natural phenomena since ancient times, leading to the development of the term 'periodically' to describe actions or events that occur at regular intervals. The use of 'periodically' has become common in everyday language, especially in fields such as science, technology, and business.
See also: period, periodic, periodical, periods.