Often-Oftentimes | Commonly Confused Words
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Master confusing words with ease

Often vs. Oftentimes

Often

/ˈɔftən/
Happening many times or again and again

Examples:

She often works at the weekend.People who walk in their sleep are often ill.Stephen was often away in London, working on political business.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Oftentimes

/ˈɒfəntaɪmz/
A word used to describe something that happens frequently or regularly

Examples:

Oftentimes, dreams can reveal our true desires.She would oftentimes reminisce about her childhood.He found himself oftentimes lost in thought while commuting.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Ways to tell them apart:

etymology
  • "Often" is a more common and concise term compared to "oftentimes."
  • "Oftentimes" has a slightly more formal or old-fashioned tone.
  • Remember, both words convey the idea of frequency, but "often" is typically used more frequently in modern English.
  • "Often" is generally preferred in spoken English due to its simplicity.
  • Use "oftentimes" if you want to add a literary or rhetorical flavor to your writing.
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