Synonyms for

Sporadic

Verb / spɜ:ˈædɪk / Another word for sporadic — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

occurring at irregular intervals or only in a few places; scattered or isolated

Synonyms & similar words

continual intermittent occasional infrequent scattered isolated patchy spotty uneven irregular random hit-or-miss inconsistent periodic episodic spasmodic fitful scanty meager scarce rare

Synonyms by register

Formal

occasional intermittent scattered isolated

Informal

here and there now and then hit or miss

Literary

fitful desultory

Antonyms

continuous constant regular frequent persistent uninterrupted steady

Common collocations

  • sporadic outbreaks
  • sporadic attacks
  • sporadic bursts
  • sporadic fighting
  • sporadic cases
  • sporadic activity
  • sporadic rainfall

Word family

adverb sporadically

Usage note

Sporadic describes something that happens occasionally and without a regular pattern. It is often used to describe events that are not continuous or widespread.

Example sentences

  1. The flowers in the garden bloomed sporadically throughout the summer.
  2. The power outages were sporadic and affected only a few neighborhoods.
  3. Her attendance at school was sporadic due to her chronic illness.
  4. The team's performance was sporadic throughout the season.
  5. The company's profits were sporadic and unpredictable.

Quotes

  • Success is not a singular event, but a sporadic outcome of many years of hard work.
  • History is not a sporadic sequence of isolated events but a coherent process.
  • The best things in life are unexpected, unplanned, and often sporadic.

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