every now and then

Idioms  

1. Also, every now and again; every once in a while; every so often. Occasionally, from time to time; also, periodically. For example, Every now and then I long for a piece of chocolate, or We take long walks every now and again, or Every once in a while he'll call, or Every so often she washes the car. The first term dates from the first half of the 1700s, the last from the mid-1900s. Also see from time to time; once in a while.

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Example Sentences

That said, I don’t believe in astrology, but I still take a peek at my horoscope every now and then.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

It needs only to “get lucky” every now and then to undermine the resolve and weaken the defense of the stronger party.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

“If you want to fit oversized burgers into your healthy eating plan, enjoy them every now and then, and make sure to pair them with other good choices,” she said.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 30, 2026

And every now and then, I might find a little bop, a little sundress, a little something to throw on, drop the things back off and then head down into the city.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 31, 2025

Then all becomes quiet in the big room—only the candles flickering from the necks of a couple of bottles and the artilleryman spitting every now and then.

From "All Quiet on the Western Front: A Novel" by Erich Maria Remarque

Related Words

• every so often
• now and again
• now and then