Here are some synonyms for "at times" and their analyses:
1. Sometimes
- Meaning: "Sometimes" is a very common synonym for "at times." It means on certain occasions or from time to time. For example, "Sometimes, I like to take a long walk in the park." It's a simple and straightforward way to express that an event or action doesn't occur all the time, but rather on an irregular basis. Compared to "at times," "sometimes" is more frequently used in everyday language and has a similar level of generality.
2. Occasionally
- Meaning: "Occasionally" means now and then or once in a while. For example, "I occasionally visit my old school to see my former teachers." It emphasizes a less - frequent occurrence than "sometimes." The tone of "occasionally" is a bit more formal and implies that the event is not a regular part of one's routine, but rather something that happens infrequently and perhaps more by chance.
3. From time to time
- Meaning: This phrase is quite similar to "at times" in meaning. It means at intervals or now and again. For example, "From time to time, we have a family reunion." It gives the sense of something that happens periodically, but not with a set schedule. It's a more elaborate way of expressing the idea of intermittent occurrence and can be used in a more formal or literary context.
4. Now and then
- Meaning: "Now and then" means occasionally or at irregular intervals. For example, "Now and then, I think about my childhood friends." It has a casual and somewhat nostalgic tone. Similar to "at times," it implies that the thought or action is not constant, but rather crops up every so often. It's a phrase that is often used in a more conversational setting.
5. At intervals
- Meaning: "At intervals" means with spaces or breaks in between. For example, "The bell rang at intervals throughout the day." It emphasizes the idea of something happening at regular or irregular gaps in time. While "at times" is more general, "at intervals" can give a more specific sense of a pattern, whether that pattern is well - defined or more haphazard.