Define and Use 'Now and Again' in a Sentence

The idiom "now and again" means occasionally or from time to time. It can be used to indicate that something happens occasionally or not very frequently. For example, "I go for a run now and again to stay in shape." It is often used in the context of habits or actions.

The idiom "now and again" is typically used in informal or conversational contexts to indicate that something happens occasionally or not very frequently. It can be used to describe habits or actions that are not done on a regular basis, but rather sporadically or at irregular intervals.

For example:

1. I like to take a break from work and play video games now and again.
2. I eat out now and again, but I mostly cook my own meals.
3. I have to remind myself to call my parents now and again, since we live far away.

It is also used to describe something that happens sometimes in the past or future, but not on a regular basis.

For example:

1. I used to play tennis now and again when I was younger.
2. I think I'll go for a walk now and again, to clear my head.

It can also be used to talk about something that happens occasionally or not very frequently, but it is not necessary to give emphasis on how frequent or infrequent it is.

Here are more sample sentences using this idiomatic expression:

1. I like to take a nap now and again during the day to recharge.
2. He only goes to the gym now and again, so he's not very fit.
3. I like to read a book now and again to escape reality.
4. I go fishing now and again, but I'm not very good at it.
5. I'll check my emails now and again, but I try not to be too connected.
6. I play the piano now and again, but I'm not very good at it.
7. We go on vacation now and again, but we mostly stay at home.
8. I'll have a glass of wine now and again, but I don't drink very often.
9. I'll watch a movie now and again, but I prefer reading books.
10. I'll go to the mall now and again, but I usually shop online.

The origin of the idiom "now and again" is not certain, but it is believed to have originated in the late 16th century. The phrase "now and again" has been used in various forms throughout history, and it has been used to mean "occasionally" or "from time to time" for a long time.

The phrase is composed of two separate words, "now" and "again" that when put together, they give the idea of something that happens sporadically.

The phrase "now and then" also has a similar meaning, it also means occasionally or from time to time, but the use of "then" instead of "again" gives the idea of something that happens at an unspecified time in the past or future, it doesn't specify if it's happening now or not.

It's important to note that the idiom has been in use for a long time, and its meaning has remained consistent throughout history.