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

Thousands of children from over a hundred tribes were sent to the school, often against their parents' wishes, and endured physical and emotional abuse. —Paul Du Quenoy, Newsweek, 10 Dec. 2024

Swipe fees are often merchants’ second largest expense after labor and eventually get passed down to consumers, experts said. —Medora Lee, USA TODAY, 10 Dec. 2024

Ripa often shares photos of her Christmas tree each year on Instagram. —Natalia Senanayake, People.com, 10 Dec. 2024

Young often targeted 11-year veteran Adam Thielen against rookie nickel safety Cooper DeJean. —Brooks Kubena, The Athletic, 9 Dec. 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