by turns

phrase

1

: one after another in regular succession

2

: variously, alternately

a book that is by turns pedantic, delightful, and infuriating

Word History

First Known Use

1538, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for by turns

• adjourns
• concerns
• discerns
• downturns
• internes
• nocturnes
• returns
• sideburns
• churns
• earns
• ferns
• kerns