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.

I know people are chapped about start/stop systems, which cycle engines off and on when the vehicle is not moving, in order to save fuel.

From The Wall Street Journal

He lived there as a kid, and as an adult stayed at the house off and on.

From Los Angeles Times

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

From Barron's

A handful of gasoline stations may see their retail prices drop below $2 a gallon over the winter “off and on,” depending on oil prices, said De Haan.

From MarketWatch

Pellow now performs without the other members of Wet Wet Wet, having toured off and on with them over the years, but splitting permanently in 2017.

From BBC

off-and-on

Example Sentences

Related Words