What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
oftentimes
Example
Oftentimes, I forget my keys when I leave the house. [oftentimes: adverb]
Example
She would oftentimes stay up late to finish her work. [oftentimes: adverb]
often
Example
I often go for a walk in the park after work. [often: adverb]
Example
He often forgets his phone at home. [often: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Often is more commonly used than oftentimes in everyday language. Often is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while oftentimes is less common and may be considered more informal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between oftentimes and often?
While both oftentimes and often can be used in both formal and informal contexts, oftentimes may be considered slightly less formal than often due to its less frequent usage in formal writing and speech.
