Definitions
- Referring to something that occurs at irregular intervals or with breaks in between. - Describing a pattern of activity that is not continuous but rather occurs in bursts or cycles. - Talking about something that is sporadic or occasional, happening from time to time.
- Referring to something that does not follow a regular or predictable pattern. - Describing something that is uneven or not symmetrical in shape or form. - Talking about something that is abnormal or deviates from the norm.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe something that is not consistent or uniform.
- 2Both words suggest a deviation from the norm or expected pattern.
- 3Both words can be used to describe physical or abstract concepts.
What is the difference?
- 1Frequency: Intermittent suggests something that occurs with breaks or pauses, while irregular implies something that does not follow a predictable pattern.
- 2Cause: Intermittent implies that the cause of the inconsistency is due to external factors, while irregular suggests that the inconsistency is inherent to the thing being described.
- 3Duration: Intermittent suggests that the inconsistency is temporary or short-lived, while irregular implies a more permanent or long-lasting deviation from the norm.
- 4Usage: Intermittent is often used to describe events or phenomena that are expected to occur periodically, while irregular is used to describe things that are not expected to follow a pattern.
- 5Connotation: Intermittent has a neutral connotation, while irregular can have a negative connotation, implying something that is flawed or defective.
Remember this!
Intermittent and irregular are both words used to describe something that is not consistent or uniform. However, intermittent suggests something that occurs with breaks or pauses, while irregular implies something that does not follow a predictable pattern. Additionally, intermittent is often used to describe events or phenomena that are expected to occur periodically, while irregular is used to describe things that are not expected to follow a pattern.