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Fitfully - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

fitfully

/ˈfɪtfəli/ /ˈfɪtfəli/

Definition:

Occurring irregularly or intermittently, often with starts and stops.

Synonyms:

Sporadically, intermittently, irregularly, erratically

Part of Speech:

Adverb

Antonyms:

Continuously, steadily, constantly

Common Collocations:

Sleep fitfully, work fitfully, progress fitfully

Derivatives:

Fitful, fitfulness

Usage Tips:

Use "fitfully" to describe actions that happen in uneven bursts rather than smoothly or consistently.

Common Phrases:

Fitful sleep, fitful progress, fitful start

Etymology:

Derived from "fit" (meaning sudden outburst) + "-ful" + "-ly," originating in the late 16th century.

Examples:

  • 1. The baby slept fitfully throughout the night.
  • 2. He worked fitfully on the project, taking long breaks between bursts of effort.
  • 3. The wind blew fitfully, alternating between gusts and calm.
  • 4. Her attention wandered fitfully during the long lecture.

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