by fits and starts

1. see fits and starts.

2. Also, in fits and starts. With irregular intervals of action and inaction, spasmodically, as in The campaign is proceeding by fits and starts. This expression began in the late 1500s as by fits, the noun fit meaning a “paroxysm” or “seizure”; starts was added about a century later.

Example Sentences

Naomi Osaka’s comeback season has been pocked by fits and starts as she reacquaints herself with her athleticism and competitive fire.

From Los Angeles Times

Past efforts to tighten security cooperation between Seoul and Tokyo have progressed by fits and starts.

From Seattle Times

For all the divisions we have faced in our history and all the serious trauma of recent years, the U.S. has endured to build, by fits and starts, a more perfect union.

From Salon

After the Civil War, the breakup movement kept going by fits and starts, over who was getting the rawest deal on you-name-it.

From Los Angeles Times

But he will, by fits and starts, be able to get some legislation through.

From Salon

Related Words

• erratically 
• fitfully www.thesaurus.com
• haphazardly 
• infrequently www.thesaurus.com
• sporadically 
• unevenly www.thesaurus.com