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Synonyms

occasional

American  
[uh-key-zhuh-nl] / əˈkeɪ ʒə nl /

adjective

  1. occurring or appearing at irregular or infrequent intervals; occurring now and then.

    an occasional headache.

  2. intended for supplementary use when needed.

    an occasional chair.

  3. pertaining to, arising out of, or intended for the occasion.

    occasional verses.

  4. acting or serving for the occasion or only on particular occasions.

  5. serving as the occasion or incidental cause.


occasional British  
/ əˈkeɪʒənəl /

adjective

  1. taking place from time to time; not frequent or regular

  2. of, for, or happening on special occasions

  3. serving as an occasion (for something)

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • occasionality noun
  • occasionalness noun
  • unoccasional adjective
  • unoccasionally adverb

Etymology

Origin of occasional

First recorded in 1560–70; occasion + -al 1

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.

Otherwise, you might want to stick to the occasional day pass when you travel.

From MarketWatch

For occasional flyers, the card might not be worth its annual fee.

From MarketWatch

"Today, despite the security situation and occasional drone attacks, no one is missing."

From Barron's

The Meta boss appeared in a dark suit and gray tie, his signature chestnut curls slightly mussed, darting occasional nervous looks at the jury and the 20-year-old plaintiff, who sat in the courtroom gallery.

From Los Angeles Times

Jonah glanced down and caught a glimpse of his arm: pale skin, light brown hairs, an occasional freckle.

From Literature