even if from time to time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "even if from time to time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something occurs occasionally or intermittently, despite other conditions or circumstances. Example: "I enjoy going for walks, even if from time to time the weather isn't perfect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

So I did, even if from time to time I discreetly fingered the safety catch to make sure it was still on.

The New Yorker

"Unfortunately, he did kick our butt in Germany, even if from time to time we did cause him some heartburn," Mr. Saban said during an interview.

The New York Times

My impression over the years is that the regulars are kind at heart, even if from time to time acerbic in their choice of words.

The Guardian

The inhabitants of this world — ordinary people whose plans and expectations are knocked off course by intimations of an afterlife — have a fine-grained individuality that makes you care even if, from time to time, you have trouble believing.

The New York Times

I was surprised to find how well the book had aged, even if, from time to time, Gaiman's ambitions outstrip his skill; spoken aloud, his stabs at slangy American dialogue wilt.

The New Yorker

Man is a fire-stealing animal, and we can't help building machines and machine intelligences, even if, from time to time, we use them not only to outsmart ourselves but to bring us right up to the doorstep of Doom.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"Even Stan Musial from time to time.

The New York Times - Sports

And if you're looking for some straightforward symbolism, there are even eagles involved from time to time.

Vice

They may even, from time to time, be a nuisance.

The Guardian

J: I love you even if I still misbehave from time to time.

The Guardian

Stay in touch with them even if they annoy you from time to time.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, ensure that the "even if" clause introduces a condition that contrasts with the main clause but does not negate it entirely.

Common error

Avoid using "even if from time to time" when the condition introduced by "even if" actually invalidates the main clause. The phrase is meant to indicate occasional exceptions, not fundamental contradictions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "even if from time to time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying the verb or clause it's attached to. It introduces a concession or a condition that contrasts with the main statement, indicating that something holds true despite occasional exceptions. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a correct and usable English expression.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

21%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "even if from time to time" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that serves as an adverbial phrase, adding a nuance of occasional exceptions or deviations to a statement. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While its frequency leans towards uncommon, it's versatile enough for neutral contexts, particularly in News & Media and Academia. Remember to use it to acknowledge exceptions without negating the core truth of the statement, and be mindful of not introducing contradictions. Consider alternatives like "even when occasionally" or "even though now and then" for varied expressions. As always, appropriateness depends on context and desired tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

even when at times

Similar in meaning, but emphasizes specific moments or instances.

even though now and then

Replaces "from time to time" with the more informal "now and then".

even if on occasion

Uses "on occasion" to replace "from time to time", offering a slightly more formal alternative.

even when occasionally

Changes the structure to focus on occasional occurrences within a broader condition.

even when every so often

Uses a more casual expression for occasional events.

even should it sometimes happen

Introduces a more formal and hypothetical tone.

even when once in a while

Replaces the original phrase with a more colloquial idiom.

even if intermittently

Substitutes "from time to time" with the more precise adverb "intermittently".

even if periodically

Emphasizes the recurring nature of the events.

even if at intervals

Highlights that events happen with space or time in between.

FAQs

What does "even if from time to time" mean?

The phrase "even if from time to time" means that something is true or happens, although there are occasional exceptions or instances where it might not be the case. It suggests that something occurs intermittently or periodically.

How can I use "even if from time to time" in a sentence?

You can use "even if from time to time" to introduce a contrasting condition that doesn't negate the overall truth of the main clause. For example, "I enjoy going for walks, "even if from time to time" the weather isn't perfect."

What are some alternatives to "even if from time to time"?

Alternatives to "even if from time to time" include "even when occasionally", "even though now and then", or "even if on occasion".

Is it grammatically correct to use "even if from time to time"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to use "even if from time to time". As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a usable phrase in written English. However, ensure it fits the context and maintains the intended meaning of occasional exceptions.