From time to time



Example: I visit my grandparents from time to time on weekends.

Definition


"From time to time" is an adverbial phrase used to describe an action or event that occurs occasionally or intermittently, but not regularly. For example, saying "I visit my grandparents from time to time" means the visits happen now and then, without a fixed schedule.

Etymology


The phrase "from time to time" originated from Middle English expressions that combined references to 'time' to indicate occasional occurrences. Its repetitive structure emphasizes irregular intervals. Did you know? This phrase has been used for centuries to suggest something happens sporadically without specifying exact frequency.

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"From time to time" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (A2) - set 1", containing 104 commonly used expressions.
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