often

adverb

of·​ten ˈȯf-tən  ˈȯ-fən 

: many times : frequently

are often puzzled and sometimes annoyed by the ways of other peoples

—W. A. Parker

Synonyms

• again and again
• constantly
• continually
• frequently
• hourly
• much
• oft
• oftentimes
• ofttimes
• over and over
• repeatedly

Examples of often in a Sentence

They go out to dinner fairly often.

How often do you call your mother?

The condition often returns even after treatment with antibiotics.

I often take a walk during my lunch break.

He travels more often than I do.

The disease is diagnosed most often in children.

They seem to be getting into arguments more and more often.

It's not often that I get to enjoy a day off.

Water the plants often enough to keep the soil moist.

Recent Examples on the Web

There is a glaring gender problem here: While deference to a lady in such a situation is not required, it is often presumed. —Jacobina Martin, Washington Post, 18 June 2024

On the flip side, their feet are more flexible, which often leads runners to overpronate, meaning their feet roll inward excessively. —Suzie Glassman, Health, 18 June 2024

Other banks are fighting to implement a new hybrid policy, often with clunky outcomes. —Byryan Hogg, Fortune Europe, 18 June 2024

Secondhand shopping is often associated with consumers that would be considered value shoppers or those that have an interest in shopping more sustainably. —Meghan Hall, Sourcing Journal, 18 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, alteration of oft

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing often

• all too often
• as often as not
• every so often
• more often than not

Kids Definition

often

adverb

of·​ten ˈȯ-fən  ˈȯf-tən 

: many times : frequently