by fits and starts
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.
Past efforts to tighten security cooperation between Seoul and Tokyo have progressed by fits and starts.
From Seattle Times • Aug. 18, 2023
For all the divisions we have faced in our history and all the serious trauma of recent years, the U.S. has endured to build, by fits and starts, a more perfect union.
From Salon • Mar. 7, 2023
The Gospel advances by fits and starts, but over time it does bring about change for the good.
From New York Times • Dec. 21, 2019
The $150 million project has been characterized by fits and starts for years and is now projected to open in 2020.
From Washington Post • Nov. 1, 2017
He moved upward slowly, by fits and starts at first, then more smoothly.
From "A Game of Thrones" by George R.R. Martin
