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

Russia has leaned heavily on its air power throughout its nearly four-year full-scale invasion of Ukraine, although Western observers have deemed its performance underwhelming; aircraft have often hammered Ukraine with destructive aerial attacks. —Ellie Cook, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Nov. 2025

Offers typically require proof of service, such as a military ID, and are often for dine-in only. —Cheryl V. Jackson, Louisville Courier Journal, 11 Nov. 2025

The docent explained that, as a young artist, Rauschenberg was often short of cash, but felt—knew—that art could be made out of anything, even a bedcover. —Hilton Als, New Yorker, 10 Nov. 2025

Even these can be banned under the severest restrictions, but often they're allowed in backcountry camping areas when wood fires are banned. —New Atlas, 10 Nov. 2025

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