Periodically

Periodically is an adverb in English used to describe an action that occurs at regular intervals or from time to time. In formal writing it often implies a predictable cadence, whereas in everyday speech it can also suggest occasional repetition. The word can modify verbs, phrases, or clauses, as in "The system checks for updates periodically."

In scientific, computing, and technical contexts, periodically indicates that events recur according to a cycle or period, such as data sampling every hour or maintenance every few weeks. It contrasts with regularly, which stresses consistency, and with occasionally, which stresses infrequency without a fixed schedule. The sense can range from precise timing to more general recurrence depending on context.

Etymology and related terms: Periodically derives from period, from Latin periodus and Greek periodos, with the adverbial suffix -ly. Related words include periodic, period, and periodicity. Examples: "The sensor transmits data periodically." "Software updates are installed periodically to maintain security."