often

adverb

ˈȯf-tən How to pronounce often (audio)
Definition of oftennext
as in frequently
many times I seem to stumble often when I try to walk in high heels

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of often The inter-war jackets often adopted a style unique to the publisher and their lead artist. — Literary Hub, 20 Oct. 2026 Some of the best producers in the world are working there, and unsurprising, distinctive shows are emerging, but it is still often seen as a production location. — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 20 Oct. 2026 Attendees often pay thousands of dollars to be in the room, only to lament the lack of representation and authenticity on-stage, and the lack of progress outside it. — Bella Webb, Vogue, 20 Oct. 2026 The data center boom appears to be moving faster than politicians can act to regulate it, as often happens with new technology. — John Shumway, CBS News, 20 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for often
Recent Examples of Synonyms for often
  1. frequently
  2. constantly
  3. repeatedly
  4. always
Adverb
  • For people who frequently encounter login interruptions, a dedicated IP may provide a more consistent browsing experience without giving up VPN encryption.
    — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 20 Oct. 2026
  • The pair relied heavily on letter writing during John’s absences, and Abigail frequently used this medium to advocate for social change.
    — Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 20 Oct. 2026
Definition of frequently
Adverb
  • The drums are constantly switching, the gait galloping one way and then swerving back again, as if the music could go anywhere.
    — Andrew Ryce, Pitchfork, 22 Oct. 2026
  • In order to be helpful, Muse constantly builds extensive dossiers of users and their desires, social relationships, and messaging behaviors, TIME’s Harry Booth reported this month.
    — Andrew R. Chow, Time, 22 Oct. 2026
Definition of constantly
Adverb
  • But Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has repeatedly dismissed previous caution of AI tools and encouraged rapid autonomous innovation at the Pentagon.
    — Chiara Eisner, NPR, 23 Oct. 2026
  • Trump has repeatedly denied ordering the disruption of Starlink, despite Musk's public assertions that the order would have come from the White House.
    — Garrett Downs, CNBC, 23 Oct. 2026
Definition of repeatedly
Adverb
  • Hemsworth’s work has always spanned genres—just look at his omnivorous DJ sets—but Numbskull positions him as a more traditional songwriter, underscored by the album’s personal, earnest tone.
    — Mehan Jayasuriya, Pitchfork, 22 Oct. 2026
  • Our Top Alpha Hydroxy Products Of course, more exfoliation isn't always better (your skin barrier would like a word).
    — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 21 Oct. 2026
Definition of always

Phrases Containing often

Browse Nearby Words

oft
often
oftentimes
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Cite this Entry

“Often.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/often. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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