fluctuate intermittently

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fluctuate intermittently" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that changes or varies at irregular intervals. Example: "The temperature in the room tends to fluctuate intermittently, making it difficult to maintain a comfortable environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The collective output (the total work done per time-step) fluctuates intermittently.

Plosone

He proposes the Delft School as a porous, fluctuating idea that intermittently revealed "a preference for understatement, for rationality and reserve and for sober realism".

The New York Times - Arts

Although ATP represents the universal energy currency in all organisms and cells, ATP levels are not simply up-regulated in cells with high and/or intermittently fluctuating energy demand.

Amino Acids

As the song begins, our chat halts as the light keys fluctuate softly in the background, broken up intermittently by trap drums.

Vice

The eddy heat fluxes fluctuate slightly during the simulation, but large fluxes appear intermittently.

Earth, Planets and Space

Markets fluctuate.

The New York Times

Markets do fluctuate.

The New York Times

"Things fluctuate," Mr. Di Rita said.

The New York Times

The last two fluctuate.

The New York Times

Did it fluctuate?

The New York Times

"And we fluctuate.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

For better clarity and impact, use this phrase when describing something concrete, such as "market prices fluctuate intermittently", rather than something abstract

Common error

While grammatically sound, "fluctuate intermittently" can sound redundant in very formal writing. Consider using a single, stronger verb like "oscillate", "vary", or "waver" for a more concise effect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fluctuate intermittently" functions as an adverbial modifier, specifying how the action of fluctuating occurs—in an irregular, sporadic manner. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage and provides examples of its application.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fluctuate intermittently" is a grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to describe irregular variations. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and suggests using it when specifying sporadic changes. While versatile, be mindful of potential redundancy in overly formal contexts. Related phrases include "vary sporadically" and "oscillate occasionally". It is frequently found in scientific and news sources, suitable for describing unstable conditions and emphasize that changes occur, but not in a predictable or consistent pattern.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

vary sporadically

Emphasizes the irregular and unpredictable nature of the changes.

oscillate occasionally

Highlights the back-and-forth movement with infrequent occurrence.

change irregularly

Focuses on the lack of a consistent pattern in the changes.

waver erratically

Suggests instability and unpredictable shifts.

shift unevenly

Underscores the inconsistent nature of the changes over time.

rise and fall periodically

Describes a cyclical pattern with irregular intervals.

pulse irregularly

Implies a rhythmic variation that is not consistently timed.

undulate inconsistently

Describes a wave-like movement with a lack of uniformity.

alternate randomly

Highlights the unpredictable switching between different states.

ebb and flow unevenly

Suggests a fluctuating pattern with an irregular receding and returning motion.

FAQs

How can I use "fluctuate intermittently" in a sentence?

You can use "fluctuate intermittently" to describe something that changes or varies at irregular intervals. For example, "The patient's blood pressure would "fluctuate intermittently", making it difficult to stabilize".

What are some alternatives to "fluctuate intermittently"?

Some alternatives include "vary sporadically", "oscillate occasionally", or "change irregularly". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "fluctuate intermittently"?

While "fluctuate" already implies variation, adding "intermittently" emphasizes the irregular and unpredictable nature of the changes. It's not strictly redundant, but consider if the added emphasis is necessary for your context.

Which is more appropriate, "fluctuate intermittently" or "fluctuate constantly"?

"Fluctuate intermittently" suggests irregular, sporadic changes, while "fluctuate constantly" implies continuous, ongoing changes. Choose the phrase that best reflects the actual pattern of variation you're describing.