at predictable intervals

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at predictable intervals" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe events or actions that occur regularly and can be anticipated in terms of timing. Example: "The train arrives at predictable intervals, making it easy for commuters to plan their journeys."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

"In the song 'Sisters of Mercy,' for instance, the verses are four elemental lines which change and move at predictable intervals . . . but the tune is anything but predictable.

The New Yorker

Invariably, the same hands dart up first, followed, at predictable intervals, by batches of also-rans and then the rest of the rumbling herd.

The New Yorker

Or, as author James Morgan puts it in his bittersweet travelogue, The Distance to the Moon, "Life is confined to prepackaged pods placed at predictable intervals, signified by bold symbols perched atop tall poles".

Forbes

This means that even in a currency with the entire money supply in circulation, you can have a long-term controlled deflationary trend simply by lowering the exchange rate at predictable intervals allowing people to buy or sell in advance of the change based on their situation.

TechCrunch

Other important characteristics of successful journal clubs are timely dissemination of reading material, preferably via the internet, and regularly scheduled meetings at predictable intervals and at a time appropriate for all participants ; in this context, monthly intervals have been found optimal because of a potentially diminishing interest if conducted too often.

F1000Research

If you have unpredictable periods, then a doctor may prescribe you oral contraceptive or other hormones to try to make your periods arrive at predictable intervals.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

With Alvin, work revolved around the daily submarine dive and samples arrived on deck at relatively predictable intervals.

The New York Times

A designation of "C/" before a comet's name denotes that it is a long-period comet (period greater than 200 years), while "P/" denotes that the comet is periodic; i.e., it returns at regular, predictable intervals of fewer than 200 years.

Encyclopedia Britannica

When the light turned red, as it did at regular, predictable intervals, a monkey could earn a juice reward by fixing its gaze on the light for a few seconds.

Science Magazine

Here's how it works: A planet should cross in front of its star (from our point of view) at regular, predictable intervals — but it might be a little late or a little early, thanks to the gravitational tug from its fellow planets in the system.

Los Angeles Times

Our explicit temporal generalization task required overt estimation of the duration of an empty interval bounded by visual markers, whereas our temporal expectancy task presented visual stimuli at temporally predictable intervals, which facilitated motor preparation thus speeding target detection.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing scheduled events or processes, use "at predictable intervals" to clearly convey the regularity and anticipated timing of occurrences. For example, "The software checks for updates at predictable intervals, ensuring the system remains secure."

Common error

Avoid using "at predictable intervals" when you actually mean 'at precise moments'. Predictability implies a general expectation of timing, while precision suggests exactness. Instead of saying, "The alarm sounded at predictable intervals (every morning)", if it's precisely 7:00 AM, say "The alarm sounded precisely at 7:00 AM".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at predictable intervals" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify when something occurs. Ludwig AI shows it describes the timing or frequency of an action or event, indicating that it happens regularly and can be anticipated.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at predictable intervals" is a grammatically sound adverbial phrase used to describe events that occur regularly and can be anticipated. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts, including news, science, and general writing. While not extremely common, it effectively conveys the idea of consistent timing. Alternatives like "at regular intervals" offer similar meanings. When using this phrase, ensure that the events truly happen with regularity and are not simply assumed to be predictable. Remember to distinguish between predictability and precision to avoid miscommunication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at regular intervals

Replaces 'predictable' with 'regular', emphasizing the consistent nature of the spacing.

at consistent periods

Substitutes 'intervals' with 'periods', maintaining the idea of recurring timeframes.

on a fixed schedule

Focuses on the scheduled aspect, implying pre-determined timing.

at uniform frequency

Highlights the consistent rate at which something occurs.

according to a set timetable

Highlights adherence to a specific timetable or agenda.

at expected times

Emphasizes the anticipation of the timing, rather than the spacing.

on a recurring basis

Emphasizes the repeated nature of the occurrence.

in recurring cycles

Highlights the cyclical nature of the events happening.

at predetermined moments

Replaces the idea of intervals with specifically chosen moments.

with rhythmic timing

Focuses on the rhythmic aspect, implying a pattern or beat.

FAQs

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

You can use "at predictable intervals" to describe events that occur regularly and can be anticipated in terms of timing. For example: "The bus arrives "at predictable intervals", making it easy for commuters to plan their journeys."

What are some alternatives to "at predictable intervals"?

Alternatives include "at regular intervals", "on a fixed schedule", or "at consistent periods", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "at predictable intervals" or "at regular intervals"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and often interchangeable. "At predictable intervals" emphasizes the anticipatory aspect, while "at regular intervals" highlights the consistent spacing of events.

Can "at predictable intervals" be used to describe irregular events?

No, "at predictable intervals" implies regularity and expected timing. For irregular events, consider using phrases like "at random times" or "at unpredictable intervals".