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

For families who believe their child's rights were violated based on race, disability, or gender in school, the federal agency often has been one of the main places to turn. — Claire Sibonney, CBS News, 24 Aug. 2026

Many of the human remains found in the Sonoran Desert, which covers over 100,000 miles, are believed to be people who have often died from dehydration or exposure to other harsh conditions, according to experts including Hess. — Emma Tucker, CNN Money, 24 Aug. 2026

Djokovic will have cheers about as loud as the ones that will be heard for the Americans Shelton and Fritz, the type of adulation that often fizzles before the ultimate prize. — Ava Wallace, New York Times, 23 Aug. 2026

Parental influence matters here, often before formal education even begins. — Sarah Hernholm, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 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

Kids Definition

often

adverb

of·​ten ˈȯ-fən  ˈȯf-tən 

: many times : frequently