Once or twice

Pro Tip 1/3

Used when an action is done infrequently, emphasizing it's not a habit or common occurrence.

I go to the cinema once or twice a year.

Pro Tip 2/3

It downplays frequency to seem modest or casual, often when you're more familiar than you want to admit.

I've met him once or twice, though we've actually had many meetings.

Pro Tip 3/3

The phrase may be an understatement, especially in modest or polite contexts.

I've read his work once or twice.