A1adverb1K

Sometimes

UK /["/ˈsʌmtaɪmz/"]/US /["/ˈsʌmtaɪmz/"]/

Definition

occasionally rather than all of the time

In simple words: at certain times, but not always

Examples

  • Sometimes I like to go for a walk in the park.
  • She sometimes forgets to turn off the lights.
  • He sometimes plays soccer with his friends on weekends.
  • Sometimes, I enjoy reading a good book in the evening.
  • Sometimes it rains unexpectedly during the summer.

Usage notes

Used to indicate regularity in actions, but not consistency. It's appropriate in both spoken and written contexts; avoid in very formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone adverb

Memory hint

Think of 'some-times' as having a 'few special moments' rather than all the time.

Collocations

  • sometimes I feel
  • sometimes it happens
  • sometimes you need
  • sometimes more is less
  • sometimes in life

Synonyms

  • occasionally
  • periodically
  • once in a while
  • from time to time
  • now and then

Antonyms

  • always
  • never

Common mistakes

  • Confuse with 'sometimes' and 'sometime' - they have different meanings.
  • Using 'sometimes' when 'always' is meant.
  • Incorrect placement in a sentence, e.g., 'I eat sometimes apples.'