irregularly

Irregularly is an adverb formed from the adjective irregular, used to describe actions, events, or patterns that do not occur in a fixed, predictable, or even manner. It denotes lack of regularity in timing, spacing, rhythm, or procedure, rather than simply infrequency.

Etymology and grammar: The word comes from the combination of irregular with the adverbial suffix -ly. Irregular derives from Late Latin irregularis, from in- “not” + regula “rule.” As an adverb, irregularly typically modifies verbs and describes manner, but it can also describe distribution or arrangement in a non-predictable way.

Usage and examples: Irregularly is common in descriptions of schedules, data, or behavior. Examples include: The trains arrived irregularly, causing delays. The data points were irregularly spaced along the timeline. The clock ticked irregularly, making it hard to anticipate the next sound. It can also appear in more abstract contexts, such as describing a performance or pattern that lacks consistent form.

Related terms: Synonyms include erratically, unevenly, inconsistently, and unpredictably. Antonyms include regularly, consistently, and methodically. While irregularly often implies a lack of pattern, its tone is neutral rather than negative, though it can suggest nuisance or unpredictability depending on context.

See also: irregular (as the base adjective describing lack of regularity) and irregular verbs (a related grammatical concept in many languages). Irregularly remains primarily a descriptive adverb for nonuniform or nonstandard manner or timing.