Definitions

on and off

ADJECTIVE

intermittent

Synonyms

STRONGEST

intermittent

WEAK

fluctuating inconstantly infrequently irregularly not often now and then off and on on-and-off sometimes sporadically uncertainly variable very seldom when the mood strikes

ADVERB

intermittently

Synonyms

WEAK

at intervals at times discontinuously every now and then every once in a while every so often from time to time hardly infrequently intermittently irregularly now and again now and then occasionally off and on on occasion once in a blue moon once in a while periodically sometimes sporadically

ADVERB

intermittent

Synonyms

WEAK

alternately at irregular intervals fluctuating inconstantly infrequently intermittently irregularly not often now and then off and on sometimes sporadically uncertainly variable very seldom when the mood strikes

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.

Earlier devices produced inconsistent switching between their "on" and "off" states, and they lost their stored configuration once power was removed.

From Science Daily • Jul. 7, 2026

"Getting on and off the bus a couple of stops early or later is how I get my steps in," she says.

From BBC • Jul. 3, 2026

Since then, the team has enjoyed unprecedented success on and off the court.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 30, 2026

“His passing has plunged the entire Vinotinto family into mourning and leaves an indelible mark on all those who shared moments with him both on and off the pitch.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 30, 2026

I ignored him as I looked at the back of the device, where a small red light was blinking on and off.

From "Glitch" by Laura Martin

on and off

Example Sentences

Related Words