occasionally
UK: əˈkeɪʒənəli | US: əˈkeɪʒənəli
adv. at infrequent or irregular intervals; now and then
adv. in a way that is not planned or regular
The word "occasionally" derives from the base word "occasion," which originates from the Latin occasio (meaning "opportunity" or "fitting time"). The suffix "-al" turns it into an adjective ("occasional"), and "-ly" further converts it into an adverb. Over time, "occasionally" evolved to describe actions or events that happen irregularly or sporadically, rather than at fixed intervals. The morpheme "occasion" retains its core idea of a specific time or event, while the suffixes modify its grammatical function.
She visits her grandparents occasionally, usually during holidays.
He checks his email occasionally but prefers face-to-face communication.
The old clock chimes occasionally, though it no longer keeps accurate time.
Occasionally, we treat ourselves to dinner at a fancy restaurant.
The professor would occasionally pause to answer questions during the lecture.