Definitions

by fits and starts

Part of Speech:

All (2) Adjective (1) Adverb (1)

Jump To:

piecemeal adj.
irregularly adv.

ADJECTIVE

piecemeal

Synonyms

STRONGEST

gradual

WEAK

at intervals fragmentary intermittent interrupted little-by-little partial patchy spotty step-by-step

ADVERB

irregularly

Synonyms

STRONGEST

erratically fitfully haphazardly infrequently sporadically unevenly

WEAK

any which way anyhow at intervals by turns disconnectedly eccentrically helter-skelter in snatches jerkily now and again occasionally off and on out of sequence periodically slapdash spasmodically uncertainly uncommonly unmethodically unpunctually willy-nilly

Antonyms

WEAK

evenly regularly

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

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by fits and starts

Naomi Osaka’s comeback season has been pocked by fits and starts as she reacquaints herself with her athleticism and competitive fire.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 21, 2024

Past efforts to tighten security cooperation between Seoul and Tokyo have progressed by fits and starts.

From Seattle Times ● Aug. 18, 2023

But he will, by fits and starts, be able to get some legislation through.

From Salon ● Jan. 24, 2021

The Gospel advances by fits and starts, but over time it does bring about change for the good.

From New York Times ● Dec. 21, 2019

He moved upward slowly, by fits and starts at first, then more smoothly.

From "A Game of Thrones" by George R.R. Martin

by fits and starts

Example Sentences

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