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

Airlines often make a bet that not everyone who confirmed their itinerary will show up for their flight — and when the airlines lose that bet, customers pay the price. —Melvin Backman, Quartz, 14 Nov. 2024

Preemies are often at higher risk for physical or intellectual disabilities. —Erika Edwards, NBC News, 14 Nov. 2024

Brush piles with enough cover can hold a couple deer, and breeding pairs often shack up in such spots. —Josh Honeycutt, Outdoor Life, 14 Nov. 2024

Some professors hesitate to grade accurately because of student evaluations, which are often more negative for tough graders. —Karin Klein, The Mercury News, 13 Nov. 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