The phrase "for a time at time" can be replaced with several synonyms, depending on the context of the sentence. Some of the synonyms that can be used include "sometimes," "occasionally," "intermittently," "periodically," "sporadically," and "once in a while." These synonyms convey the idea that something happens, but not on a consistent basis. They imply that the action or occurrence is not a regular feature, but rather a fleeting occurrence that can occur at any point in time. By using these synonyms, the writer can add variety to their sentence structure and create a more engaging piece of writing.