# periodically

/ˌpiɹiˈɑdɪkəɫi/ (US) · /pˌiəɹɪˈɒdɪkli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/periodically
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. at regular intervals

adverb · CEFR B2 · Academic

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

For teachers: 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.

### 2. from time to time

adverb · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The software checks for updates periodically.
- The fire alarm is tested periodically to ensure it remains in working order for the safety of the staff.
- While the system is largely automated, a technician must periodically intervene to recalibrate the sensors and prevent long-term data drift.

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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.