Definitions

sporadic

[spuh-rad-ik] / spəˈræd ɪk /

ADJECTIVE

on and off

Synonyms

STRONGEST

desultory fitful infrequent intermittent irregular isolated occasional random rare scattered spotty

WEAK

bits and pieces few fits and starts hit-or-miss on-again-off-again scarce seldom semioccasional spasmodic uncommon unfrequent

Antonyms

STRONGEST

common constant even frequent methodical regular systematic usual

WEAK

continuous dependable

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.

After that, the updates will be more sporadic.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2026

Yet senior executives also warned rising prices and sporadic supplies shortages were hampering business.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 3, 2026

This year’s sporadic IPO comeback, he said, “kind of feels like Lucy pulling the football away from Charlie Brown.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 1, 2026

Mr Miller said a couple of "sporadic tests on one water stream give us a bit of information and give us a reason to act rapidly. They don't give us a full picture."

From BBC • May 20, 2026

Wednesday morning, only sporadic outbursts punctuated quiet in the streets, but many were not convinced the trouble was over.

From "A Few Red Drops: The Chicago Race Riot of 1919" by Claire Hartfield

Vocabulary lists containing sporadic

Grade 9, List 1

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The Great Gatsby

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"Simon's Saga," Vocabulary from Episode 1

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