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Definitions

off-and-on

ADVERB
every once in a while
Synonyms
WEAK
alternately at irregular intervals fluctuating hardly infrequently intermittent irregularly not often on and off scarcely sometimes sporadically vacillating variable very seldom when the mood strikes
off and on
ADVERB
intermittently
Synonyms
WEAK
alternately at intervals at times every once in a while every so often fluctuating from time to time irregularly now and then occasionally on occasion once in a while sometimes sporadically vacillating variably

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.

Both off and on the festival grounds, these brands host a series of parties, pop-ups and other VIP events that lavish celebrities, influencers and artists with premium experiences.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

After frantic work in the garage, Mercedes managed to fix Russell's car by applying a series of default procedures such as switching the car off and on again and swapping out the steering wheel.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

I studied off and on with Sheila for a few years.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 3, 2026

Tensions off and on the field have been high since a deadly military clash between the nuclear-armed neighbours in May.

From Barron's • Nov. 16, 2025

Rhiannon and I have seen each other off and on through the years, but this is the first time in a while.

From "Every Day" by David Levithan

Vocabulary lists containing off-and-on

Occasional

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