# once in a while

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/once-in-a-while
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Occasionally; sometimes.

## Examples

- I go for a walk once in a while.
- Although I usually prefer coffee, I enjoy a cup of tea once in a while.
- Even though they live in different countries, they manage to call each other once in a while to catch up on their lives.

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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.