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

That includes what triggered the suspect, what brought him to Washington, and whether there might be any potential copycats who might want to do follow-on attacks, as is often the case after a presidential assassination attempt, the official said. —Michael Collins, USA Today, 27 Apr. 2026

Veterans like Foligno, Jared Spurgeon and Jonas Brodin often bring it up and know how much fans are dying for this organization to go on a run. —Michael Russo, New York Times, 27 Apr. 2026

The Cubs’ approach has largely been solid this season, often yielding plenty of run-scoring chances on a daily basis. —Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 27 Apr. 2026

While sherry casks are often used to mature single malt scotch, virgin American oak is much less frequently employed, especially compared to ex-bourbon barrels. —Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 26 Apr. 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