What is another word for in fits and starts?

Pronunciation: [ɪn fˈɪts and stˈɑːts] (IPA)

"In fits and starts" refers to something that happens irregularly or in sudden bursts, often with long periods of inactivity in between. Some synonyms that could be used in place of "in fits and starts" include "sporadically," "intermittently," "erratically," "fitfully," or "unevenly." These words all convey a sense of inconsistency or unpredictability, and could be used to describe any number of activities or phenomena, from the behavior of a difficult-to-control child to the progress of a long-term project that is plagued with setbacks and delays. Whatever the context, the phrase "in fits and starts" and its synonyms all convey the idea something is happening, but not in a steady, continuous way.

What are the hypernyms for In fits and starts?

A hypernym is a word with a broad meaning that encompasses more specific words called hyponyms.

Famous quotes with In fits and starts

  • I was totally absorbed in the real world, the politics, the history, the news, and I just couldn't find my way into the fictional world... When I finally could return to writing the novel, it was in fits and starts.
    David Guterson
  • But I think the possibility of a black and white society feeding each other's expertises, living harmoniously, will probably go along in fits and starts now but at least it has a great constitution now to back it up.
    Janet Suzman

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