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.

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

“A somewhat happy existence, off and on, which is normal. And hopefully, if the person wants to pursue that, some kind of a personal relationship.”

From Los Angeles Times

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

off-and-on

Example Sentences

Related Words