The phrases “ever so often” and “every so often” might sound similar, but they traditionally convey different frequencies of occurrence. However, it’s important to note that “ever so often” is less commonly used and can sometimes be considered incorrect or a mishearing of “every so often,” which correctly and commonly means occasionally.
Every so often
Definition:
“Every so often” means occasionally or at irregular intervals.
Examples of use:
Be sure to check every so often for news updates to stay informed about current events.
I water the plants every so often to ensure they don’t dry out, about once a week.
Every so often, we meet up for coffee to catch up, usually every couple of months.
Common misuse: ever so often
Misunderstood usage:
Some people might use “ever so often” intending to mean very frequently or quite often. However, this usage can lead to confusion, as “ever so often” is not a standard phrase in English and might be interpreted as an error or mishearing of “every so often.“
Clarification:
It’s advisable to avoid using “ever so often” due to its potential for misunderstanding and lack of clear, standard definition. Instead, specific terms like “frequently,” “often,” or “regularly” can be used for clarity.
The correct phrase to use when indicating occasional events or actions is “every so often.” It explicitly conveys that something happens periodically but not frequently. Misinterpretations or variations such as “ever so often” should be avoided to maintain clarity and accuracy in communication. By choosing precise language, you ensure that your messages are understood as intended, especially in formal writing or detailed instructions.
