Occasionally: events from time to time

The idea

Place occasionally before a main verb or after be. It can also begin or end a sentence.

Examples

• We occasionally cook outdoors.
• The lift occasionally stops between floors.
• Occasionally, a fox visits the garden.
• My uncle writes poetry occasionally.
• The path is occasionally muddy after rain.
• The neighbours occasionally share their tools.

Watch out

Occasionally does not mean every time; it leaves the exact frequency open.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the word for an event that happens from time to time. I ___ visit the museum, perhaps twice a year. (occasionally / always)

   Show answer or example answer

   occasionally

   Occasionally fits a visit made perhaps twice a year.

2. Choose the word for an event that happens from time to time. The printer is ___ noisy, but usually quiet. (occasionally / always)

   Show answer or example answer

   occasionally

   Occasionally fits the contrast with the printer’s usual quiet.

3. Choose the word for an event that happens from time to time. We ___ take a taxi; most days we walk. (occasionally / never)

   Show answer or example answer

   occasionally

   Occasionally allows taxi trips alongside the usual walks.

Use it today

Describe two things that happen to you from time to time.