Showing results for by fits and starts. Search instead for in+fits+and+starts.

Definitions

by fits and starts

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.

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 $150 million project has been characterized by fits and starts for years and is now projected to open in 2020.

From Washington Post • Nov. 1, 2017

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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