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.

Spiritualist friends wanted the powerful Maggie Fox to return to the séance table; and off and on, she did.

From Literature

Moira was there for me off and on as I tried to settle into a new life and stop the pattern of moving every couple years.

From Los Angeles Times

“This type of tremor came and went, off and on,” remembered Malone.

From Literature

We looked for the blanket off and on the rest of that day, although Alice said it would be better if we didn’t find it.

From Literature

I engaged in the ancient ritual of turning the phone off and on again.

From The Wall Street Journal