Sporadicity: meaning, definitions and examples

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sporadicity

 

[spɔː.rəˈdɪs.ɪ.ti ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

rare occurrence

The quality or state of being sporadic; irregularity; occasional occurrence.

Synonyms

infrequency, irregularity, occasionalness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sporadicity

Used when referring to events or occurrences that happen irregularly and without a predictable pattern. Generally implies that these events happen rarely and unexpectedly.

  • The sporadicity of earthquakes in the region makes it difficult to predict them
  • The sporadicity of his visits left us always wondering when we might see him next
irregularity

Describes situations or occurrences that do not follow a consistent or expected pattern. It can be used broadly, including both the timing and the manner of events.

  • The irregularity of his work schedule made it hard for him to plan personal activities
  • Irregularity in the data suggests there might be an error in the experiment
infrequency

Refers to how rarely something happens. It often highlights the rarity of an occurrence over time.

  • The infrequency of rainfall in the desert makes it a harsh environment
  • Due to the infrequency of flights, travelers often have to wait several days for the next available plane
occasionalness

Used when something happens infrequently but in a semi-predictable manner. This word often carries a neutral or slightly casual connotation.

  • Her occasionalness in attending the meetings was noted by the team
  • The occasionalness of their family gatherings always brought special joy

Examples of usage

  • The sporadicity of his visits made it difficult to predict when he would show up.
  • She was used to the sporadicity of the internet connection in the remote area.
  • Irregularity and sporadicity in rainfall patterns can lead to drought conditions.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Greek word 'sporadikos', meaning 'scattered'.
  • It first appeared in the English language in the mid-19th century, evolving from its Greek roots.

Science

  • In meteorology, sporadic weather events can include sudden storms that happen unexpectedly.
  • In biology, sporadic diseases are those that occur infrequently, differing from endemic or epidemic patterns.

Psychology

  • Sporadic positive experiences can enhance motivation better than constant rewards, influencing behavior in learning environments.
  • The irregularity of rewards is known to create a stronger psychological response, often found in games or gambling.

Literature

  • Authors often use sporadic events in storytelling to create tension and surprise, making narratives more engaging.
  • Characters might experience sporadic moments of clarity or memory, adding depth to their development.

Pop Culture

  • Sporadic appearances of characters in a TV series can keep audiences intrigued and guessing about their significance.
  • In music, sporadic releases of singles by an artist can build excitement and anticipation among fans.

Translations

Translations of the word "sporadicity" in other languages:

🇵🇹 esporadicidade

🇮🇳 असामयिकता

🇩🇪 Sporadizität

🇮🇩 sporadisitas

🇺🇦 спорадичність

🇵🇱 sporadyczność

🇯🇵 散発性 (さんぱつせい)

🇫🇷 sporadicité

🇪🇸 esporadicidad

🇹🇷 seyreklik

🇰🇷 산발성 (산발적임)

🇸🇦 تواتر متقطع

🇨🇿 sporadičnost

🇸🇰 sporadickosť

🇨🇳 零星性 (língxīng xìng)

🇸🇮 sporadičnost

🇮🇸 dreifðleiki

🇰🇿 сирек кездесу

🇬🇪 სპორადიულობა (sporadialoba)

🇦🇿 sporadiklik

🇲🇽 esporadicidad