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

• 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

At its heart, the show centered on the cruise ship's crew, who often interacted with the passengers aboard. —Angela Andaloro, PEOPLE, 28 Oct. 2025

For example, Target, Walmart, and Amazon often host free shipping weekends or lower delivery minimums in late October and November. —Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Oct. 2025

Diane Brady is an award-winning business journalist and author who has interviewed newsmakers worldwide and often speaks about the global business landscape. —Diane Brady, Fortune, 28 Oct. 2025

High-end homes in the area often stay on the market for up to a year. —Francesca Pica, jsonline.com, 27 Oct. 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