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 the more commonly used word and is shorter in length.
  • Oftentimes has an extra times at the end, making it a bit more formal or old-fashioned.
  • Both words mean frequently, but oftentimes might seem slightly more emphatic.
  • Think often for day-to-day conversation, oftentimes for a bit more stylistic writing.
  • Remember that often fits better in casual speech due to its brevity.
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