time and time again

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "time and time again" is correct and is used often in written English.
It is used to refer to something that happens repeatedly. For example: "I've told my son to clean his room time and time again, but he still hasn't done it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You hear that time and time again.

The New Yorker

"It happens time and time again.

The New Yorker

"He does it time and time again.

Independent

19 Time and Time Again.

The New York Times

I've heard it time and time again.

The New York Times

"We've seen it time and time again".

The New York Times - Sports

"We've practiced it time and time again.

The New York Times - Sports

"I've said that time and time again.

The New York Times

I've done them time and time again.

The New York Times - Sports

He's proven it time and time again.

The New York Times - Sports

I saw that time and time again.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "time and time again" to emphasize the repeated nature of an event or action, especially when highlighting frustration, persistence, or a predictable pattern. For example: "I've warned him about the dangers, time and time again."

Common error

While "time and time again" is a valid phrase, avoid using it too frequently in your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "repeatedly" or "frequently" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "time and time again" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate that an action or event has occurred repeatedly. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its usage in various contexts. It emphasizes the repetitive nature of the action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "time and time again" is a correct and frequently used adverbial phrase that indicates repetition. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, it serves to emphasize the recurring nature of an event, often conveying frustration or persistence. While versatile, it's best to avoid overuse and consider synonyms like "repeatedly" or "frequently" for variety. Remember to emphasize repetition and avoid using it too much in your writings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

again and again

Mirrors the structure of the original phrase but with a slight shift in emphasis.

time after time

Maintains the temporal aspect but uses different prepositions.

over and over

Emphasizes the cyclical nature of the repetition, more colloquial.

repeatedly

Focuses directly on the action's iterative nature, simpler and more direct.

frequently

Highlights the high number of occurrences, implying a statistical observation.

regularly

Implies a consistent pattern of occurrence.

on numerous occasions

More formal and highlights the quantity of instances.

on a recurring basis

More formal, indicating a structured or scheduled repetition.

many a time

More literary and implies a nostalgic recollection of repeated events.

incessantly

Emphasizes the continuous and often annoying nature of the repetition.

FAQs

What does "time and time again" mean?

The phrase "time and time again" means repeatedly or frequently. It is used to emphasize that something has happened many times.

How can I use "time and time again" in a sentence?

You can use "time and time again" to describe actions or events that occur repeatedly. For example: "She has proven her skills "time and time again"."

What are some alternatives to "time and time again"?

Alternatives to "time and time again" include "repeatedly", "frequently", and "over and over".

Is it redundant to say "time and time and time again"?

While grammatically acceptable, saying "time and time and time again" can be considered overly emphatic and somewhat informal. Sticking to "time and time again" is usually sufficient.