at convenient intervals

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at convenient intervals" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe actions or events that occur at times that are suitable or appropriate for the situation. Example: "The maintenance team will check the equipment at convenient intervals to ensure everything is functioning properly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

But someone -- apparently, members of Hezbollah -- had also thoughtfully dumped piles of rocks at convenient intervals along the walkway, and many people, particularly young men, hurled them over the fence.

The New York Times

The relay stages of the cursus publicus, established at convenient intervals along the great roads of the empire, formed an integral part of its complex military and administrative system.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In fair weather, they could stand on the promenade and take in the bustle of the traffic below; in more inclement weather, they might seek shelter in the numerous drawing rooms (for women) and smoking rooms (for men) at convenient intervals along the promenade.

The New York Times

I have reached the conclusion that for some people the beach - at least this one, in Ocean City, N.J. - is seen as a giant receptacle available for their own personal disposal purposes, even though, like most beaches, our beach has numerous trash and recycling bins set up at convenient intervals.

The New York Times

There is a kind of person who, while borrowing at a low floating rate and paying only interest expense, will amortize principal at convenient intervals.

Forbes

Place fondue forks at convenient intervals.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Serum samples were sent to each laboratory at convenient time intervals (Madrid for the immunological study, Granada for the biochemical, metabolic and vitamin studies and Pamplona for the genetic study).

BMC Public Health

Web users may use convenient interval inputs for online shopping.

Applied Soft Computing

With the continuous fits the simulation could be scored at the most convenient time intervals.

Plosone

Difficulty getting appointments at convenient times is a problem.

Independent

Do you have mathematical issues at convenient times?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When scheduling tasks or events, use "at convenient intervals" to emphasize that the timing is chosen to minimize disruption and maximize efficiency for those involved.

Common error

Avoid using "at convenient intervals" when you actually mean "at regular intervals". Convenience implies suitability for someone's schedule, while regularity implies a consistent timing pattern, regardless of personal convenience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at convenient intervals" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify when or how frequently an action occurs. As Ludwig suggests, it indicates that actions are timed to suit circumstances.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at convenient intervals" is an adverbial phrase indicating that actions occur at times that are practical and suitable. Ludwig analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It's most commonly found in news and media and scientific contexts and used to describe schedules that prioritize ease and efficiency. When using this phrase, ensure that convenience, not just regularity, is the primary consideration. While "at convenient intervals" is not a very common phrase it is well accepted and can be used effectively in a range of situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at suitable times

Emphasizes appropriateness of timing rather than ease or regularity.

at opportune moments

Focuses on the advantage or benefit derived from the timing.

at appropriate junctures

Highlights the fitness of the timing within a sequence of events.

at regular intervals

Stresses a consistent, predictable schedule, lacking the element of convenience.

as needed

Indicates actions are performed when a requirement or necessity arises.

when it is practical

Highlights feasibility and ease of execution in performing actions.

at one's convenience

Focuses on the individual's ease and readiness to perform an action.

at favorable times

Highlights positive conditions facilitating the action.

at strategic moments

Emphasizes calculated and purposeful timing for optimal impact.

periodically

Suggests actions occurring with some consistent separation in time, not necessarily convenient.

FAQs

How can I use "at convenient intervals" in a sentence?

You can use "at convenient intervals" to describe actions or events that occur at times that are suitable or appropriate. For example, "The maintenance team will check the equipment "at convenient intervals" to ensure everything is functioning properly."

What are some alternatives to "at convenient intervals"?

Alternatives include "at suitable times", "at opportune moments", or "at regular intervals", depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

What's the difference between "at regular intervals" and "at convenient intervals"?

"At regular intervals" implies a fixed, predictable schedule, while "at convenient intervals" suggests a flexible schedule tailored for ease and suitability. Regularity focuses on timing; convenience focuses on user experience.

Is it better to use "at suitable intervals" or "at convenient intervals"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and convey similar meanings. "At suitable intervals" emphasizes appropriateness, while "at convenient intervals" highlights ease and practicality. The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to express. Consider "at suitable intervals" when something just has to be suitable, and "at convenient intervals" when is important that something will happen easily.