Often
'ɒfən
Definitions
Frequently; many times; at short intervals.
'ɒfən
Frequently; many times.
I often eat breakfast before going to work.
💡 Simply: Often means doing something a lot, like watching your favorite TV show. Imagine your favorite show plays five times a week - you often watch it!
👶 For kids: Often means doing something many times, like eating your favorite snack!
More Examples
She often forgets to lock the door.
They often travel during the summer.
How It's Used
"We often go to the park on weekends."
"She often calls me when she needs help."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
More often than not
Usually; in most cases.
"More often than not, the train is late."
From Middle English *often, oftan*, a variant of *oft*, from Old English *oft* ('often, frequently').
Historically, 'often' and 'oft' were used interchangeably, with 'oft' being slightly more formal. 'Often' has become the more common form.
Memory tip
Think of the word 'frequently' and replace it in the sentence to remember often.