sometimes

UK: ˈsʌmtaɪmz | US: ˈsʌmtaɪmz

Definition

  1. adv. on certain occasions but not always; occasionally

Structure
some <certain>time <occasion>s <adverbial suffix>
Etymology

The word "sometimes" originates from Old English "sumtīma," combining "sum" (meaning "certain" or "some") and "tīma" (meaning "time" or "occasion"). The modern form retains this structure, with the adverbial "-s" suffix (akin to "-wise" or "-wards") indicating frequency. The word logically evolved to denote irregular or occasional occurrences, contrasting with "always" or "never."

Examples

  1. Sometimes I prefer tea over coffee in the morning.

  2. He visits his grandparents sometimes, but not every weekend.

  3. The weather here is unpredictable; sometimes it rains unexpectedly.

  4. She sometimes forgets to reply to messages.

  5. Even experts sometimes make mistakes.