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sometimes

B1
adverb

Pronunciation

UK

  • /sˈʌmtaɪmz/

US

  • /ˈsəmˌtaɪmz/
  • /səmˈtaɪmz/

Description

"Sometimes" means something happens on some occasions, but not regularly. Think of a shy child who sometimes waves hello; they do not wave every time you see them, just when they feel brave enough. It also fits things that are hard to predict, like the weather: "It sometimes rains in California" means rain is not guaranteed, but it does happen. The word can also make a statement less absolute. Instead of saying "All cats are aloof," you might say, "Cats are sometimes aloof."

Examples

  1. 1

    Daily routine

    I sometimes walk to work when the weather is nice.

  2. 2

    Forgetfulness

    She sometimes forgets where she put her keys.

  3. 3

    Social plans

    We go out for dinner sometimes, but not very often.

  4. 4

    Software issue

    Sometimes the app crashes after an update.

  5. 5

    Meetings

    He can be quiet in meetings, but sometimes he asks the best questions.

  6. 6

    Personal wish

    Sometimes I wish I could turn my phone off for a whole day.

  7. 7

    Cause and effect

    Small changes can sometimes make a big difference.

  8. 8

    Feedback needs

    People say they want feedback, but sometimes they really just want support.

See also

adverbon some occasions, but not always

Similar

Shades of meaning

Contrast

Do not confuse

Used with (collocations)

  • sometimes I
  • sometimes it
  • sometimes when

Explore

  • frequency
  • habitual action

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • sometimesadverb