In 15 Seconds
- Used for things that happen occasionally.
- Very flexible sentence placement.
- Great for describing moods or weather.
- Sounds more natural than 'sometimes'.
Meaning
This phrase describes something that happens occasionally but isn't a constant habit. It carries a vibe of reflection, suggesting that while things are usually one way, they can shift in specific moments. It’s perfect for talking about moods, weather, or unpredictable technology.
Key Examples
3 of 10Texting a friend about work
My job is really stressful `at times`, but I love my team.
My job is really stressful sometimes, but I love my team.
Reviewing a restaurant on Yelp
The service was a bit slow `at times` during the dinner rush.
The service was a bit slow occasionally during the dinner rush.
Instagram caption for a travel photo
Solo travel can be lonely `at times`, but the views are worth it.
Solo travel can be lonely sometimes, but the views are worth it.
Cultural Background
The phrase dates back to Middle English, where 'times' referred to specific occasions or seasons. It exists because humans need a way to describe the inconsistency of life without sounding too scientific. It reflects a cultural acceptance that people and situations are not always predictable or one-dimensional.
The Comma Rule
If you start a sentence with `At times`, it usually sounds better to add a comma after it, like this: 'At times, I miss home.'
Don't say 'At Time'
Always make sure 'times' is plural. Saying 'at time' sounds like you are struggling with basic grammar and will confuse people.
In 15 Seconds
- Used for things that happen occasionally.
- Very flexible sentence placement.
- Great for describing moods or weather.
- Sounds more natural than 'sometimes'.
What It Means
Ever feel like your Wi-Fi has a mind of its own? One minute it is fast, the next it is crawling. That is exactly where at times lives. It means 'sometimes' or 'occasionally.' It describes things that happen now and then. It is not a strict schedule. It is more about those random moments. You use it to talk about feelings or patterns. It adds a little flavor to your English. It sounds more natural than using sometimes every single time. It suggests that while the situation is usually stable, it can change. It is like a surprise guest at a party. You know they might show up, but you aren't sure when.
Origin Story
This phrase is quite old but very reliable. It comes from the idea of 'times' being specific points in history. In Old English, people looked at time as a series of events. They didn't have digital clocks or Google Calendar. They saw life as a collection of 'times' or 'seasons.' If something happened at times, it happened during those specific intervals. It wasn't constant like the sun. It was more like the rain. The phrase has stayed with us for centuries. It is a linguistic survivor. It survived the transition from quills to touchscreens. It hasn't changed its meaning much at all. It still points to those specific, irregular moments in our lives. Unlike your old iPhone, this phrase never goes out of style.
How To Use It
You can drop this phrase in a few different spots. It is very flexible. You can put it at the very beginning of a sentence. This creates a bit of drama. You can also put it at the very end. This makes it feel like an afterthought. Some people put it in the middle, near the verb. Just don't overthink the placement too much. It is hard to get wrong. Use it when you want to be honest about a struggle. Use it when you are describing a person's personality. It helps you avoid sounding like a robot. Robots are always 100% something. Humans are only things at times. Even the best coffee can be bitter at times if the barista is having a bad day.
Real-Life Examples
Imagine you are texting a friend about a new Netflix show. You might say, "The plot is a bit slow at times." This means most of the show is fine. However, some parts make you want to check your phone. Or think about your Uber driver. "The driver was a bit lost at times, but we arrived." It means he didn't stay lost forever. He just had a few 'off' moments. Maybe you are writing a caption for a gym selfie. "The workout was tough at times, but I finished!" This shows you are real. It shows you didn't just breeze through it. Even the most successful TikTokers feel shy at times. It is a very human expression. It bridges the gap between 'always' and 'never'.
When To Use It
Use this phrase during job interviews on Zoom. It shows you have self-awareness. You might say, "I can be a perfectionist at times." This sounds better than saying "I am a perfectionist." It makes the trait sound manageable. Use it when describing the weather during a travel vlog. "It gets windy at times on this beach." It warns people without scaring them away. It is perfect for product reviews on Amazon. "The battery life is short at times." This gives a balanced view. It is great for talking about your learning journey on Duolingo. "Learning grammar is confusing at times." Everyone will nod in agreement. It is the 'honest' version of 'sometimes'.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use it for things that happen on a strict schedule. If your bus arrives every 10 minutes, don't say it comes at times. That sounds like the bus is erratic. Also, avoid it for permanent facts. You wouldn't say "The sun is hot at times." The sun is always hot. If it wasn't, we would have bigger problems than grammar. Don't use it if you want to sound very scientific. Scientists prefer percentages or specific data. At times is too vague for a lab report. Don't use it if you are 100% sure of something. If you love pizza every single day, don't say you like it at times. Be proud of your pizza obsession. Save at times for the things that actually fluctuate.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mix this up with other 'time' phrases. One big mistake is saying ✗ in times → ✓ at times. In times is usually followed by something else, like "in times of trouble." Another one is ✗ at the times → ✓ at times. Adding 'the' makes it sound like you are talking about specific clock times. Some people say ✗ on times → ✓ at times. This is likely a translation error from other languages. Remember, 'at' is the magic word here. Also, don't confuse it with on time. If you are on time, you are not late. If you do something at times, you do it occasionally. Don't tell your boss you will arrive at times. They might fire you before you even get there!
Similar Expressions
If you get tired of at times, try occasionally. It is a bit more formal. It sounds like you are wearing a suit. You could also use from time to time. This has a nice rhythmic flow. It feels a bit more poetic. Now and then is another great choice. It is very casual and friendly. It sounds like something you'd say over a beer. Every so often is a bit more British-sounding. It implies a slightly more regular pattern. Once in a while is also a classic. It suggests the events are even rarer. All of these live in the same neighborhood. They are all friends. You can pick the one that fits your mood. Just don't let sometimes do all the heavy lifting.
Memory Trick
Think of the word 'Attack.' Both start with 'At.' Imagine that a 'Time' is attacking you. It doesn't happen all day. It just happens at times. It's a sudden, occasional 'attack' of a mood or a situation. Or, think of a clock with 'At' written on the hands. The hands move around. They only point to certain numbers at times. It is not always 3 o'clock. It is only 3 o'clock at times. If you can remember the 'At', you are halfway there. Just picture those little moments scattered like sprinkles on a donut. The whole donut isn't a sprinkle. The sprinkles are only there at times. Now I am hungry for donuts and grammar.
Quick FAQ
Is at times formal? It is neutral. You can use it with your boss or your best friend. Does it mean the same as sometimes? Yes, but it feels a bit more descriptive. Can I use it for positive things? Absolutely. "She is very funny at times." Does it go at the start of a sentence? Yes, it can. "At times, I forget my own password." Why is 'times' plural? Because it refers to multiple different occasions. Is it British or American? It is both. It is a universal English idiom. Can I say at all times? That means 'always,' so be careful. That is the opposite of at times. Language is a bit of a prankster like that. Just keep practicing, and you will get it right.
Usage Notes
The phrase `at times` is extremely safe to use in both casual and professional settings. It is most commonly placed at the end of a sentence to provide balance. Be careful not to confuse it with 'at all times' which means always.
The Comma Rule
If you start a sentence with `At times`, it usually sounds better to add a comma after it, like this: 'At times, I miss home.'
Don't say 'At Time'
Always make sure 'times' is plural. Saying 'at time' sounds like you are struggling with basic grammar and will confuse people.
Softening Negative Feedback
Use `at times` to make a complaint sound less aggressive. 'Your work is sloppy at times' is much kinder than 'Your work is sloppy.'
English Modesty
English speakers love using `at times` to avoid sounding arrogant. They might say 'I am a good cook at times' even if they are a chef!
Examples
10My job is really stressful `at times`, but I love my team.
My job is really stressful sometimes, but I love my team.
Shows a balanced view of a situation.
The service was a bit slow `at times` during the dinner rush.
The service was a bit slow occasionally during the dinner rush.
Provides specific feedback without being too harsh.
Solo travel can be lonely `at times`, but the views are worth it.
Solo travel can be lonely sometimes, but the views are worth it.
Expresses a common emotional reality of traveling.
He is such an angel, though he can be a little monster `at times`!
He is an angel, though he can be a little monster sometimes!
A humorous way to describe a child's changing moods.
I find that I can be a bit too focused on details `at times`.
I find that I can be a bit too focused on details occasionally.
A soft way to mention a minor weakness.
It gets quite chilly here `at times`, so bring a jacket.
It gets quite chilly here sometimes, so bring a jacket.
Giving advice based on unpredictable weather.
✗ I go to the gym on times. → ✓ I go to the gym `at times`.
I go to the gym sometimes.
Common error using 'on' instead of 'at'.
✗ The train arrived at times. → ✓ The train arrived `on time`.
The train arrived when it was supposed to.
'At times' means occasionally; 'on time' means punctual.
The audio was a bit quiet `at times`, but the content was great!
The audio was a bit quiet occasionally, but the content was great!
Constructive criticism for a creator.
The controls feel a bit clunky `at times` on the console version.
The controls feel a bit clunky sometimes on the console version.
Describing an intermittent technical issue.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank
The idiom is always `at times`. Other prepositions like 'on' or 'in' are incorrect in this phrase.
Choose the correct option
Which sentence means 'I sometimes feel tired'?
`At times` is the standard plural idiom for 'sometimes'.
Find and fix the error
The phrase for 'occasionally' is `at times`, not 'in times'.
Translate this sentence
`At times` is a perfect synonym for 'sometimes' in this context.
Fill in the blank
You can start a sentence with `At times` to introduce a reflective thought.
Put the words in correct order
The phrase `at times` usually comes after the adjective it modifies.
Find and fix the error
The idiom `at times` does not use the article 'the'.
Choose the correct option
Which sentence is natural for a product review?
`At times` correctly describes an occasional crash. 'At all times' would mean it never works!
Fill in the blank
`At times` fits perfectly here to describe an intermittent failure.
Put the words in correct order
Starting with `At times` emphasizes the frequency of the action.
Translate this sentence
`At times` is a less formal but very effective substitute for 'occasionally'.
Match phrases with meanings
It is crucial to distinguish these three very different time-related phrases.
🎉 Score: /12
Visual Learning Aids
Formality of 'Occasional' Phrases
Used with friends and family.
now and then
Safe for any context.
at times
Used in writing or speeches.
occasionally
Academic or legal contexts.
periodically
When to Use 'At Times'
Moods
I feel lonely at times.
Weather
It gets foggy at times.
Tech Issues
The app lags at times.
Personal Habits
I forget my keys at times.
Job Description
It is stressful at times.
At Times vs. At All Times
Phrases for Frequency
High Frequency
- • constantly
- • always
- • regularly
Medium Frequency
- • often
- • frequently
- • usually
Low Frequency
- • at times
- • occasionally
- • now and then
Zero Frequency
- • never
- • rarely
- • seldom
Practice Bank
12 exercisesIt rains here ___ times during the summer.
The idiom is always `at times`. Other prepositions like 'on' or 'in' are incorrect in this phrase.
Which sentence means 'I sometimes feel tired'?
`At times` is the standard plural idiom for 'sometimes'.
Find and fix the mistake:
Life is hard in times.
The phrase for 'occasionally' is `at times`, not 'in times'.
He can be rude sometimes.
Hints: at, times
`At times` is a perfect synonym for 'sometimes' in this context.
___ times, I wonder if I should move to a different city.
You can start a sentence with `At times` to introduce a reflective thought.
Arrange the words in the correct order:
Click words above to build the sentence
The phrase `at times` usually comes after the adjective it modifies.
Find and fix the mistake:
I see him at the times at the park.
The idiom `at times` does not use the article 'the'.
Which sentence is natural for a product review?
`At times` correctly describes an occasional crash. 'At all times' would mean it never works!
While usually reliable, the system does fail ___, requiring a manual reboot.
`At times` fits perfectly here to describe an intermittent failure.
Arrange the words in the correct order:
Click words above to build the sentence
Starting with `At times` emphasizes the frequency of the action.
Occasionally, the weather becomes unpredictable.
Hints: at, times
`At times` is a less formal but very effective substitute for 'occasionally'.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
It is crucial to distinguish these three very different time-related phrases.
🎉 Score: /12
Video Tutorials
Find video tutorials on YouTube for this phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
20 questionsYes, they are very similar in meaning. However, at times often feels a bit more descriptive or emphasis-driven than the more common 'sometimes.' You can use them interchangeably in almost any casual or professional setting.
You certainly can use it in formal writing. While 'occasionally' might sound slightly more academic, at times is perfectly acceptable and adds a nice rhythmic variety to your prose. It shows that you are comfortable with natural English idioms.
It is quite flexible and can be placed at the beginning, the middle, or the end of a sentence. For example, you can say 'At times he is late,' 'He is at times late,' or 'He is late at times.' Most people prefer putting it at the end.
These are completely different and often confused by learners. At times means occasionally or sometimes, whereas 'on time' means being punctual and not late for a specific appointment or scheduled event. Don't mix them up or you might miss your bus!
The phrase always uses the plural form 'times.' This is because it refers to multiple different occasions where something might happen. Using the singular 'at time' is incorrect and will sound very unnatural to a native speaker's ears.
No, because 'at all times' actually means 'always' or 'constantly.' It is the exact opposite of at times. If a sign says 'Wear a helmet at all times,' it means you should never take it off while you are in that area.
Not necessarily, though it is often used to describe moods or problems. You can use it for positive things too, like saying 'The sunset is beautiful at times.' It just depends on the adjective you use with it in the sentence.
Both are great, but at times feels a bit more conversational and warm. 'Occasionally' is a longer, more formal word that you might use in a business report or a scientific study. For texting or chatting, stick with at times.
Native speakers often link the 't' in 'at' with the 't' in 'times,' making it sound almost like one word: 'at-times.' You don't need to pause between the two words. Try to say it smoothly as one single unit of meaning.
Yes, you can use it for any tense. For example, you could say 'I was very happy at times during my childhood' or 'I will be traveling at times next year.' It is a very versatile tool for your English vocabulary kit.
It provides a different rhythm to the sentence and can emphasize that the occurrences are distinct moments. It adds a touch of sophistication to your speech without making you sound like you are trying too hard to be formal.
Try to avoid repeating it too much to keep your writing interesting. You can switch between at times, 'sometimes', 'now and then', and 'occasionally.' Variety is the spice of life, and it is also the secret to great English writing.
Yes, it works well for habits that aren't perfectly regular. If you usually drink tea but sometimes drink coffee, you could say 'I drink coffee at times.' It shows that the habit is the exception rather than the rule.
The most direct opposite would be 'always' or 'constantly.' If you want to use a similar-sounding phrase, 'at all times' is the perfect antonym. 'Never' is also an opposite, but it represents the other end of the frequency spectrum.
Usually, no comma is needed in the middle of a sentence. For example, 'The weather is hot at times' is correct. However, if you use it as an interjection, you might use commas: 'The weather, at times, can be quite hot.'
Yes, it is a basic idiom that children learn quite early. It is not complex or offensive in any way. It is a fundamental part of describing the world around us, regardless of your age or your English level.
It is equally common in both. Whether you are in London, New York, or Sydney, everyone will understand exactly what you mean. It is one of those 'safe' idioms that works across the entire English-speaking world without any confusion.
You wouldn't usually say 'very at times.' Instead, you would put 'very' before the adjective. For example, 'She is very happy at times.' The 'very' modifies the adjective 'happy,' not the frequency phrase at times.
No, 'at the same time' means simultaneously. At times refers to different, separate moments. For example, you can't be happy and sad 'at the same time' (usually), but you can be happy at times and sad at times on different days.
That is a different phrase. 'One at a time' means one after another in a sequence. At times means occasionally. It is a small difference in spelling but a huge difference in meaning, so be very careful with that 's'!
Related Phrases
from time to time
synonymoccasionally or sometimes
This phrase is slightly more rhythmic and poetic than `at times` but shares the same meaning.
now and then
informal versionoccasionally
This is a very common, casual way to say `at times` when chatting with friends.
at all times
antonymalways; without exception
It is the direct opposite and a common point of confusion for many English learners.
once in a while
synonymvery occasionally
This phrase suggests that the event happens even less frequently than `at times` usually does.
occasionally
formal versionsometimes but not often
This single-word adverb is the preferred choice for formal writing or professional business emails.
