ENGLISH
REFERENCE

now and then

idiom
Meaning

Synonym of occasionally, sometimes, intermittently.


Origin

disputed origin

Compare Dutch nu en dan, West Frisian no en dan.

Examples
SIMPLE

I visit my parents now and then.

CONTEXTUAL

Although he prefers to walk, he takes the bus to work now and then when it rains.

COMPLEX

The old lighthouse keeper would gaze out at the horizon, watching the distant ships pass by now and then as the seasons slowly turned.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    any time now

    Very soon.

  2. 02

    now and again

    Synonym of occasionally, sometimes, intermittently.

  3. 03

    now for

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

  4. 04

    now or never

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

  5. 05

    now you mention it

    Used to precede another comment about something just mentioned.

  6. 06

    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.

  7. 07

    now you're talking

    A phrase indicating agreement with a previously stated suggestion to change a course of action.

  8. 08

    now, more than ever

    Used to emphasize the increased urgency or importance of something in the present moment compared to any time in the past.

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