Definitions
- Describing something that does not happen often or is not done frequently. - Talking about an event or occurrence that is rare or unusual. - Referring to a situation or circumstance that is not common or typical.
- Describing something that happens rarely or at irregular intervals. - Talking about an event or occurrence that is not common or frequent. - Referring to a situation or circumstance that does not happen often or is not typical.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe something that does not happen often.
- 2Both words can be used to describe events, situations, or circumstances.
- 3Both words have negative connotations, implying that the lack of frequency is undesirable or inconvenient.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Nonfrequent is less commonly used than infrequent and may sound awkward or unfamiliar to some speakers.
- 2Prefix: Nonfrequent uses the negative prefix 'non-' while infrequent uses the negative prefix 'in-'.
- 3Formality: Infrequent is more commonly used in formal writing or speech, while nonfrequent is more informal and less commonly used.
- 4Connotation: Nonfrequent may imply a complete absence of frequency, while infrequent implies a low frequency or irregularity.
Remember this!
Nonfrequent and infrequent are synonyms that describe something that does not happen often. However, nonfrequent is less commonly used and may sound awkward to some speakers. Infrequent is more versatile and can also mean 'not habitual' or 'not customary'. Both words have negative connotations and imply that the lack of frequency is undesirable or inconvenient.
