Sporadic Meaning and Definition
Sporadic
Pronunciation
/ˈsproʊdaɪk/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Irregularly distributed or occurring in isolated instances, not part of a regular or continuous pattern.
Examples
- The company’s new products had sporadic updates, causing confusion among customers.
- The weather forecast predicted sporadic showers throughout the week.
Etymology
The word “sporadic” comes from the Greek words “sporos,” meaning “seed,” and “deiksis,” meaning “showing.” It was first used in the 17th century to describe the irregular distribution of seeds or particles.
Usage Notes
To use “sporadic” accurately, describe a phenomenon or situation that is not part of a regular or consistent pattern. Be mindful of context, as the word can be easily misused. For example, a job interview with sporadic openings would not imply that the interview process is irregular, but rather that the opportunities for employment are not continuous.
Cultural References
Sporadic has appeared in various forms of media, such as literature, film, and television. For instance, the concept of “sporadic” has been used to describe the rarity of certain events in science fiction and fantasy.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “In a sporadic pattern” or “with sporadic frequency” to describe irregular occurrences.
Related Words or Phrases
- Isolated, discrete, irregular, scattered, intermittent.
Collocations
- “Sporadic appearances'” or “sporadic events.”
Frequency of Use
Sporadic is moderately common in modern language, particularly in academic and professional contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Sporikic, Sproadic, Sporidic.