Every now and then
Example: I visit my grandparents every now and then on weekends.
Definition
"Every now and then" is an adverbial phrase meaning occasionally or from time to time, used to indicate that something happens irregularly but periodically. For example, in the phrase 'I visit my grandparents every now and then on weekends,' it implies visits happen sometimes but not regularly.
Etymology
The phrase "every now and then" originates from combining 'now' and 'then,' both old English words referring to moments in time. 'Every' emphasizes repetition. This phrase has been used in English for centuries to describe intermittent occurrences. Did you know? Its casual tone made it popular in everyday speech rather than formal writing.
Learn to use this expression actively
"Every now and then" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (A2) - set 1", containing 104 commonly used expressions.
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