occasionally

adverb

oc·​ca·​sion·​al·​ly ə-ˈkā-zh(ə-)nə-lē 

: on occasion : now and then

dines out occasionally

We occasionally see deer in the field.

Synonyms of occasionally

• sometimes

Examples of occasionally in a Sentence

Occasionally, things don't go as planned.

Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes.

Recent Examples on the Web

Despite the grim circumstances, the crowd still placed bets, rose to their feet to cheer the horses to the finish, and occasionally to curse after a close loss. — Robert McCoppin, Chicago Tribune, 25 July 2026

Over time, the child argues longer because arguing has occasionally worked. — Jillian Pretzel, Parents, 25 July 2026

Simmer, stirring occasionally, until orzo and vegetables are tender, 12 to 14 minutes. — Erin Merhar, Southern Living, 25 July 2026

Use diet soda occasionally, rather than as an everyday habit. — Verywell Health, 25 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English occasionaly "on a particular occasion, sometimes," from occasyonal occasional + -ly -ly entry 2

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing occasionally

• very occasionally

Kids Definition

occasionally

adverb

oc·​ca·​sion·​al·​ly -ē 

: from time to time

occasionally goes to the movies