Another Word for Often: 8 Synonyms with Examples
“Often” means many times or frequently. Some alternatives sound more formal; others suggest a regular habit.
As an adverb: many times; frequently
- frequently
- regularly
- repeatedly
- commonly
- usually
- routinely
- many times
- time and again
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- frequently
- Slightly more formal; common in reports and research.
- regularly
- Suggests a steady pattern, such as every week.
- repeatedly
- Again and again, often with frustration: “I asked repeatedly”.
- commonly
- About how widespread something is among people or cases.
- time and again
- Emphatic and conversational.
Example sentences
- frequently: Patients frequently report better sleep after the change.
- regularly: She regularly swims before work.
- repeatedly: The alarm went off repeatedly during the night.
- commonly: The plant is commonly found near rivers.
- time and again: Time and again, the same mistake appears in reports.
Opposite of often
- rarely
- seldom
- never
- occasionally
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “often”. Check the meaning before you use one.
adverb: oftentimes, oft, much
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “often”?
The most useful alternatives are “frequently”, “regularly”, “repeatedly”, “commonly”, “usually”. For the main sense (many times; frequently), “frequently” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “frequently” and “regularly”?
frequently: Slightly more formal; common in reports and research. regularly: Suggests a steady pattern, such as every week.
What is the opposite of “often”?
Common antonyms are “rarely”, “seldom”, “never”, “occasionally”.