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

Whereas popular running shoes often have a chunky silhouette, this pair is relatively low-profile. —Genevieve Cepeda, Travel + Leisure, 30 Dec. 2025

Bertinelli went on to win two Golden Globe awards for her portrayal of Barbara and often credits the show for launching her decades-long career in acting. —Caroline Blair, PEOPLE, 29 Dec. 2025

Our culture often glorifies doing more, but rest is just as vital. —Kelly Mickle, SELF, 29 Dec. 2025

For Yilmaz, the cycle of constant, often frantic, creation and consumption across the luxury sector (in the form of new collections, endless content and bigger sales) marks a shift away from historical practices of scarcity and craftmanship. —Kati Chitrakorn, CNN Money, 29 Dec. 2025

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