ENGLISH
REFERENCE

now and again

idiom
Meaning

Synonym of occasionally, sometimes, intermittently.


Examples
SIMPLE

I visit my parents now and again.

CONTEXTUAL

Although I usually prefer coffee, I enjoy a cup of tea now and again to relax.

COMPLEX

The old lighthouse keeper would gaze out at the horizon, watching the distant ships pass by now and again amidst the heavy fog.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    any time now

    Very soon.

  2. 02

    come again

    A polite formula used when one has not heard or understood what has been said, or to indicate surprise.

  3. 03

    here we go again

    An expression of frustration upon seeing or hearing something bad repeated.

  4. 04

    now and then

    Synonym of occasionally, sometimes, intermittently.

  5. 05

    now for

    Used to introduce something that is to occur or be presented next.

  6. 06

    now or never

    At this sole opportunity or time, or not at all.

  7. 07

    now you mention it

    Used to precede another comment about something just mentioned.

  8. 08

    now you're cooking

    Used to praise someone for adopting a more effective or suitable method or approach, or to signal that progress is being made.

© 2026 English Reference