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.

Alibaba doesn’t have a contract with the Pentagon and has been on and off the list before.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

"He is a proven winner at the highest level over a long period and is someone who can be a big player for us, both on and off the pitch."

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

It’s all still so new for a young player navigating a massive change on and off the field.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 5, 2026

Originally listed for $32 million in July 2023, the 13,000-square-foot home with a plethora of luxurious amenities has bounced on and off the market ever since, each time with a significant price reduction.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 3, 2026

Fireflies glittered in the leaves of the elm trees and in the ferns and in the hazel bushes, flickering on and off like the lights of a strange and distant city.

From "Stardust" by Neil Gaiman

on and off

Example Sentences

Related Words