Definitions

on-again, off-again

[on-uh-gen awf-uh-gen, of-, awn-] / ˈɒn əˌgɛn ˈɔf əˌgɛn, ˈɒf-, ˈɔn- /

ADJECTIVE

intermittent

Synonyms

WEAK

alternate arrested broken by bits and pieces checked cyclic cyclical discontinuing discontinuous epochal every other fitful here and there hit-or-miss infrequent interrupted isochronal isochronous iterant iterative metrical now and then occasional on and off periodic periodical punctuated recurrent recurring rhythmic rhythmical seasonal serial shifting spasmodic sporadic stop-and-go

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.

In a truly extraordinary piece of timing, the New York Times reported on Thursday that the on-again, off-again interim U.S.

From Slate • Mar. 6, 2026

But his on-again, off-again tariffs have roiled supply chains and financial markets.

From Barron's • Feb. 25, 2026

The on-again, off-again trade war between the U.S. and China this year has been felt around the world.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 31, 2025

Economists and real estate agents cited a variety of factors probably contributing to the trend, including high mortgage rates, rising inventory and the economic uncertainty caused in part by on-again, off-again tariffs.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2025

JORDIE: We've always had a kind of on-again, off-again thing.

From "Linked" by Gordon Korman