What does "periodically" mean?

1. (at regular intervals) happening repeatedly at set times or after a certain amount of time has passed. 2. (from time to time) happening every now and then, but not necessarily on a strict schedule.

How do you use "periodically"?

Typically placed after the verb or at the end of a clause to modify the frequency of an action. Often used at the beginning of a sentence for emphasis or after the main verb.

periodically

adv.

US //ˌpiɹiˈɑdɪkəɫi// UK //pˌiəɹɪˈɒdɪkli// pe·ri·od·i·cal·ly

1 at regular intervals (adv.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

happening repeatedly at set times or after a certain amount of time has passed.

occurring at regular or fixed intervals. This sense often implies a planned or systematic repetition.

Example

The security guard checks the back door periodically throughout the night.

Example

The software is programmed to back up all active files periodically, ensuring that no more than fifteen minutes of work is ever at risk.

Usage

Typically placed after the verb or at the end of a clause to modify the frequency of an action.
- constantly
- permanently
2 from time to time (adv.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

happening every now and then, but not necessarily on a strict schedule.

occurring intermittently or from time to time. While similar to 'regularly', this sense can describe less predictable recurrence.

Example

We periodically meet for coffee to catch up on each other's lives.

Example

Although they lived in different countries, the sisters periodically exchanged long letters to maintain their close relationship.

Usage

Often used at the beginning of a sentence for emphasis or after the main verb.
- never
- continuously

Origin

From periodic + -ally.