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

Ultimately, Taylor’s journey was a lesson in how simple pleasures are often the most enduring souvenirs—internal keepsakes that linger long after the last bag is unpacked. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Sep. 2026

Players often downplay symptoms to stay on the field—and many signs of brain trauma, such as headaches, memory problems and fatigue, are easy to hide. — Alexandra Pattillo, Scientific American, 23 Sep. 2026

This happens every few years and often alters global weather patterns. — Edna Tarigan, Arkansas Online, 23 Sep. 2026

Not because their music isn’t often brilliant in its own way. — Ed Masley, AZCentral.com, 22 Sep. 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

Kids Definition

often

adverb

of·​ten ˈȯ-fən  ˈȯf-tən 

: many times : frequently