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

• again and again
• constantly
• continually
• frequently
• hourly
• much
• oft
• oftentimes
• ofttimes
• over and over
• repeatedly

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

The answer often will reveal your authentic desires. —Juli Fraga, Washington Post, 14 July 2024

The reasons often cited are practical ones, from heat reflection to sweat-masking. —Jacqui Palumbo, CNN, 12 July 2024

Even so, animals are often given multiple options to stay cool within their enclosures. —Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 12 July 2024

The company said the data does not include customer names, but there are often ways to find the name associated with a specific telephone number. —Alex Groth, Journal Sentinel, 12 July 2024

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

Kids Definition

often

adverb

of·​ten ˈȯ-fən  ˈȯf-tən 

: many times : frequently