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.

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 • Feb. 5, 2026

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 • Dec. 11, 2025

But interventions then dropped off, and on the UK side there seems to be surprise that it has taken so long to resolve the problems Retailleau had already identified and said he would fix.

From BBC • Nov. 28, 2025

Tensions off and on the field have been high since a deadly military clash between the nuclear-armed neighbours in May.

From Barron's • Nov. 16, 2025

I turned my flashlight off and on, hoping to be seen and rescued.

From "Breaking Through" by Francisco Jiménez

Vocabulary lists containing off-and-on

Occasional

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off-and-on

Example Sentences

Related Words

Vocabulary lists containing off-and-on

Occasional