occasionally

word · lemma: occasion

/əˈkeɪʒənəɫi/
uh-KAY-zhuh-nuh-lee
/əkˈeɪʒənəli/
uh-KAY-zhuh-nuh-lee

Definition

Sometimes, but not often or regularly. It describes something that happens at irregular times.

Usage & Nuances

Common in neutral and slightly formal English; in everyday speech, 'sometimes' is often more common. 'Occasionally' usually suggests less frequency than 'sometimes' and often appears before the main verb ('I occasionally go') or at the beginning/end of a sentence.

Example Sentences

I occasionally drink coffee in the morning.

basic

She occasionally visits her grandmother on Sundays.

basic

It occasionally rains here in summer.

basic

We occasionally go out for dinner, but usually we cook at home.

natural

He occasionally forgets to reply to messages, so don't take it personally.

natural

Occasionally, I miss living in the city, especially when everything feels too quiet here.

natural