In spurts

usgb
adverb

Happening or done in short, sudden bursts or intervals, not continuously.

He grew in spurts during his teenage years.
Visual representation of "in spurts" - Happening or done in short, sudden bursts or intervals, not continuously.

Often appears as...

  • work in spurts
  • grow in spurts
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "in spurts"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Irregular Patterns

Understanding 'in spurts' means recognizing the action doesn't happen in a regular pattern or at predictable intervals.

Illustration for Irregular Patterns
My sister's interest in painting comes in spurts; some weeks she paints daily, and then not at all.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Sudden Activity

'In spurts' conveys a sudden increase in activity after a period of stillness or slower pace.

Illustration for Sudden Activity
The old car started in spurts, sputtering to life after being unused for a while.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Common Misuse

Don't confuse 'in spurts' with consistent, ongoing progress; it implies intermittent bursts of action or growth.

Illustration for Common Misuse
Her blog gained popularity in spurts, with periods of rapid follower increase followed by quiet.
Visual representation of the word "In spurts"

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