# fits and starts

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/fits-and-starts
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Activity which is intermittent, variable in intensity, and prolonged by interruptions.

## Examples

- My work on the project happens in fits and starts.
- Progress on the new house has been in fits and starts because of the bad weather.
- Although the economy showed signs of recovery, growth remained in fits and starts throughout the year due to global uncertainty.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.