Occasional

Definition

Occasional pertains to events or actions that occur or are done infrequently or irregularly.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈkeɪʒənəl/
• Respelling: uh-KAY-zhuh-nuhl (with "uh" as in "but," "KAY" as in "kayak," "zhuh" as in "measure," and "nuhl" as in "tunnel")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈkeɪʒənəl/
• Respelling: uh-KAY-zhuh-nuhl (similar to American English, with "uh" as in "but," "KAY" as in "kayak," "zhuh" as in "measure," and "nuhl" as in "tunnel")

In both dialects, "occasional" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "KAY." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "uh-KAY-zhuh-nuhl."

Etymology

The term "occasional" originates from the Latin "occasio" which means "opportunity" or "fit time." It was adopted into English via the Old French "occasion."

Derivatives

• Occasionally
• Occasionalism
• Occasionalist
• Occasionalize
• Occasionality

Synonyms

• Infrequent
• Sporadic
• Intermittent

Antonyms

• Constant
• Regular
• Continuous

Usage

"Occasional" is used to describe something that happens or is done on an irregular basis, rather than continuously or frequently.

• He makes occasional trips to the city for work.
• The room serves as an occasional guest bedroom.

Related Terms

• Rare
• Periodic
• Uncommon

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Infrequent Events/Actions: Referring to something that takes place or appears at irregular intervals; not frequent or regular.‍
• Example: The town receives occasional rainfall during the year.

• Special Events/Actions: Pertaining to or created for a particular occasion.‍
• Example: She wore her occasional dress for the gala.

• Not Permanent: Serving for the occasion or on a temporary basis.‍
• Example: The company hires occasional workers during the holiday season.