From time to time

Meaning

The idiom "from time to time" means occasionally or irregularly, without a fixed schedule. It is used to describe something that happens infrequently or intermittently.

Usage

• I like to go on vacation from time to time to break up the monotony of work.
• My friend comes by my apartment from time to time to borrow some books.
• The company announces a new product launch from time to time to keep their customers engaged.
• My daughter likes to visit her grandparents from time to time during the summer break.
• We go out for dinner from time to time to explore different restaurants in the city. The usage of "from time to time" can vary depending on the context. In some cases, it may imply a feeling of frustration or boredom with a repetitive routine, while in others it may suggest excitement or anticipation for a future event.

Roots and History

The idiom "from time to time" dates back to at least the 14th century and is believed to have originated from Old French. It originally meant "at irregular intervals." Over time, it has evolved to mean anything that happens infrequently or irregularly. The idiom may also be related to the English phrase "from time immemorial," which means from very ancient times.

Synonyms in English

• Occasionally
• Intermittently
• Rarely
• Infrequently
• At intervals

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish - a veces
• Italian - spesso
• French - parfois
• German - gelegentlich
• Japanese - ときどき (tokidoki)

Similar Idioms

• field day

• set in ways

• flog a dead horse