Idiom
once in a while
Infrequently or occasionally.
Meanings
occasionally; sometimes, but not often.
Definition
The idiom "once in a while" describes something that happens sometimes, but not very often. It is used to indicate an intermittent or sporadic frequency for an event or activity. You might use it to talk about something you enjoy but don't get to do on a regular basis.
Examples
- I enjoy baking, but I only do it once in a while when I have free time on the weekends.
- My brother lives abroad, so we only get to see him once in a while, usually during holidays.
- Even busy professionals need to relax once in a while to avoid burnout and stay productive.
- The old clock in the hall chimes correctly, but only once in a while, making its sound a pleasant surprise.
- She likes to treat herself to a fancy meal once in a while, especially after a successful project.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse "once in a while" with "all the while," which has a completely different meaning related to a continuous period.
Learn this in a path
More at B2 level
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- cheap as chips Very cheap; costing very little money.