every now and then

Idioms  

1. Also, every now and again; every once in a while; every so often. Occasionally, from time to time; also, periodically. For example, Every now and then I long for a piece of chocolate, or We take long walks every now and again, or Every once in a while he'll call, or Every so often she washes the car. The first term dates from the first half of the 1700s, the last from the mid-1900s. Also see from time to time; once in a while.

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Example Sentences

"I peaked a couple of times in this tournament, but every now and then I get a new peak," he said.

From BBC • Jul. 6, 2026

But every now and then, a company—often led by founders with unusual conviction—simply grows out of reach.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 2026

That said, I don’t believe in astrology, but I still take a peek at my horoscope every now and then.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

“If you want to fit oversized burgers into your healthy eating plan, enjoy them every now and then, and make sure to pair them with other good choices,” she said.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 30, 2026

Downstairs he could hear Dad stomping around, muttering every now and then about the time and topsoil being lost with every raindrop.

From "Among the Hidden" by Margaret Peterson Haddix

Related Words

• every so often
• now and again
• now and then