What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cyclically
Example
The seasons change cyclically every year. [cyclically: adverb]
Example
The stock market tends to rise and fall cyclically over time. [cyclically: adverb]
periodically
Example
I get my car serviced periodically to keep it in good condition. [periodically: adverb]
Example
The company holds meetings periodically to discuss progress and goals. [periodically: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Periodically is more commonly used than cyclically in everyday language. Periodically is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while cyclically is more commonly used in scientific or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cyclically and periodically?
Both cyclically and periodically are relatively formal words, but cyclically may be more technical or precise in tone, while periodically is more general and adaptable to different contexts.