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Synonyms

once in a while

Idioms  

  1. Occasionally, not very often, as in Once in a while I enjoy going fishing. [Mid-1800s] Also see every now and then; from time to time.

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.

But every once in a while, we get a little wink, an ounce of good luck, an unearned gift, a happy accident, and this recipe falls in that category.

From Salon • Apr. 13, 2026

Every once in a while, we review our past stock picks.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

We needed to be on the right side of things once in a while.

From BBC • Feb. 22, 2026

It’s unfashionable in many precincts to admit it, but the market for precious metals still sends useful signals every once in a while.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 26, 2026

Every once in a while, T.J. shot me a glare and I shot one right back.

From "Wish" by Barbara O'Connor

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.