often

adverb

of·​ten ˈȯf-tən  ˈȯ-fən 

: many times : frequently

… are often puzzled and sometimes annoyed by the ways of other peoples …

—W. A. Parker

Synonyms of often

• frequently
• constantly
• repeatedly
• always

Examples of often in a Sentence

They go out to dinner fairly often.

How often do you call your mother?

The condition often returns even after treatment with antibiotics.

I often take a walk during my lunch break.

He travels more often than I do.

The disease is diagnosed most often in children.

They seem to be getting into arguments more and more often.

It's not often that I get to enjoy a day off.

Water the plants often enough to keep the soil moist.

Recent Examples on the Web

When psychological care is integrated alongside medical and physical treatment, athletes are often better prepared not only to return to sport, but to prevent and manage future setbacks more effectively. —Ian McMahan, New York Times, 21 Mar. 2026

The brand is best known for its hanbang approach, often spotlighting ingredients used in Korea for generations—especially ginseng, which Sulwhasoo carefully processes and ferments for hundreds of hours to help bring out its skin-revitalizing benefits. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 21 Mar. 2026

But planning has centered on the possible deployment of forces from the secretive Joint Special Operations Command, the elite military unit often tasked with the most sensitive counter-proliferation missions, two of the sources told CBS News. —Jennifer Jacobs, CBS News, 21 Mar. 2026

These devices are expensive, often costing up to $3,000, and require patients to remain seated during therapy, limiting flexibility and daily activity. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 21 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, alteration of oft

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing often

• all too often
• as often as not
• every so often
• more often than not

Rhymes for often

• boffin
• coffin
• offen
• soften
• tryptophan

Kids Definition

often

adverb

of·​ten ˈȯ-fən  ˈȯf-tən 

: many times : frequently