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

In the absence of mandatory reporting rules, she and other doctors are often left to rely on rumors, their grapevines of colleagues, and the fragments of information the state public health agency is able to gather and willing to share. —Jennifer Berry Hawes, CNN Money, 21 Feb. 2026

The public would see more information about how judges rule on pretrial matters, sentencing, courtroom efficiency and how often their decisions are reversed on appeal under this House bill. —Stephen Gruber-Miller, Des Moines Register, 20 Feb. 2026

Since wood can develop bacteria buildup, simply wash your cutting boards after use with water and a gentle antibacterial soap, then add a fresh coat of food-safe oil every so often for a waterproof finish. —Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 20 Feb. 2026

Essentially, the body’s extreme response to an often minor bacterial, viral, fungal or parasitical infection. —Harriet Marsden, TheWeek, 20 Feb. 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
• tryptophan

Kids Definition

often

adverb

of·​ten ˈȯ-fən  ˈȯf-tən 

: many times : frequently