every second sentence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "every second sentence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to alternating sentences in a text or conversation, indicating that you want to focus on or analyze every other sentence. Example: "In the report, I will summarize every second sentence to highlight the main points without overwhelming the reader."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Tech

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Exclamation marks ended every second sentence.

The New Yorker

We don't live in Trumpenistan yet; we are not all legally obliged to mention Donald Trump's name in every second sentence.

The Guardian - Opinion

Every second sentence has a fact not just collected, as they say, but connected – the history of women in professional kitchens she deals with in the twitch of an over-large skirt; calories, teeth, Clarence Birdseye, weighting scales, the microwave … in what is so much more than a history of these objects, Wilson invests each one with narrative and meaning.

The Guardian - Books

If you're a newcomer, answer this question as honestly as possible; are you likely to be put off a game by the idea that one of the protagonist's most powerful weapons transforms into an adorably cute imp that says "Kupo!" at the end of every second sentence?

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

About every third sentence began with "By the way".

The New Yorker

Do say: "Every third letter of every fifth sentence of this article makes up an anagram.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I like the anonymity of the city," she said, seeming to pepper every third sentence with a curse and laughter.

The New York Times

Even at a shooting range, Hilary drops the Saviour's name into every third sentence and assumes that God must be on her side.

The New Yorker

So, according to HillaryLogic tm), does that mean Ohio "doesn't count" because it's full of white people?10 01 : John McCain just quoted "Invictus" again; someone call Bill Kristol.9 57 : And, on a similar note, hasn't anyone told Mr McCain that inserting "my friends" into every fifth sentence makes him sound like a used car salesman?9 47 : John McCain comes to the podium.

The Economist

I was introduced to the book by my parents, people who, if they had ever imagined that I might, after finishing the thing, run away from school, smoke like a chimney, lie about my age in bars, solicit a prostitute, or use the word "goddam" in every third sentence, would (in the words of the story) have had about two hemorrhages apiece.

The New Yorker

He's alternatively pinched and nasal then full-throated and bellowing – and listen to that beyond-the-subconscious whisper he uses on I'm Just Looking, the sort of thing you'd expect from a bleak-wave act who say "angst", "weltschmerz" or "paranoia" at least every third sentence.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "every second sentence" to describe specific patterns in writing or speech, such as rhetorical devices or recurring themes.

Common error

Avoid assuming a strict numerical sequence when using "every second sentence". If the text is disorganized or non-linear, the pattern may not be consistent or meaningful. It is useful only when sentences are logically ordered.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "every second sentence" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies a verb or describes a pattern of occurrence. As Ludwig AI shows, it's used to describe something that happens in an alternating sequence of sentences.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "every second sentence" is a grammatically correct and understandable way to describe a pattern in writing or speech, where something occurs in alternating sentences. Ludwig AI analysis, supported by examples from sources like The New Yorker and The Guardian, confirms its usability. While not extremely common, the phrase is generally used neutrally across various contexts, especially in News & Media. For those looking for alternatives, phrases like "every other sentence" and "alternate sentence" can be used, but for the best result consider the nuance you want to add.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

every other sentence

A more common synonym, using 'other' instead of 'second'.

each second sentence

Replaces 'every' with 'each', providing a more specific and less general feel.

alternate sentence

Focuses on the alternating nature but omits the 'every' quantifier, slightly reducing emphasis on regularity.

alternating sentences

A more concise way to indicate a pattern of sentences appearing in alternation.

every even-numbered sentence

More precise by specifying even-numbered sentences. This works if numbering is implied.

every odd-numbered sentence

Similar to even-numbered, but focuses on the other set of alternating sentences.

sentences in alternation

Highlights the alternating pattern of sentences rather than focusing on a specific ordinal position.

intermittent sentence

Emphasizes the sporadic or non-continuous nature of the sentence being considered.

sentences at two-sentence intervals

Describes the spacing more explicitly, focusing on the interval between sentences.

sentences with a one-sentence gap

Focuses on the gap between the sentences of interest.

FAQs

What does "every second sentence" mean?

The phrase "every second sentence" refers to alternating sentences in a piece of writing or speech. It means considering each sentence that follows the previous one, skipping one in between.

How can I use "every second sentence" in an analysis?

You can use "every second sentence" to point out patterns, themes, or writing techniques that occur with that frequency. For example, you might say, "The writer uses a metaphor in "every other sentence" to emphasize the story's themes."

Is "every second sentence" the same as "every other sentence"?

Yes, "every second sentence" and "every other sentence" are generally interchangeable. Both phrases mean that you consider each sentence by skipping one in between.

What are some alternatives to "every second sentence"?

Alternatives include "alternate sentence", "each second sentence", or "sentences in alternation" depending on the context. But in most contexts "every other sentence" is the most direct replacement.