Word
periodically
Phoneticspe·ri·od·i·cal·ly, stress on the third syllable
US/ˌpiɹiˈɑdɪkəɫi/
UK/pˌiəɹɪˈɒdɪkli/
Adverb of frequency
Definitions
01at regular intervals
B2 · Upper Intermediate Academic
adv. happening repeatedly at set times or after a certain amount of time has passed.
adv. occurring at regular or fixed intervals. This sense often implies a planned or systematic repetition.
“The security guard checks the back door periodically throughout the night.”
“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.
Synonyms
Antonyms
02from time to time
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adv. happening every now and then, but not necessarily on a strict schedule.
adv. occurring intermittently or from time to time. While similar to 'regularly', this sense can describe less predictable recurrence.
“We periodically meet for coffee to catch up on each other's lives.”
“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.
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“Wesson says that if you really need to check emails on holiday, then it's better to say, "I will be periodically checking emails," as it manages expectations.” “It grants the wearer mighty powers but periodically needs recharging from a big green power pack.” Etymology
From periodic + -ally.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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