by fits and starts
Idioms-
see fits and starts.
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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
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
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 ● Aug. 21, 2024
Past efforts to tighten security cooperation between Seoul and Tokyo have progressed by fits and starts.
From Seattle Times ● Aug. 18, 2023
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 ● Mar. 7, 2023
The $150 million project has been characterized by fits and starts for years and is now projected to open in 2020.
From Washington Post ● Nov. 1, 2017
So by fits and starts, she followed Yuko into Islam.
From "Zeitoun" by Dave Eggers
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
