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bisweilen

sometimes, occasionally

adverb bis-VY-len Rare
Descriptions & Qualities Degree

Also means

at times

Usage Note

Bisweilen is a formal or literary synonym of manchmal, preferred in written German. It suggests infrequent but recurring occurrences without the slightly colloquial feel of ab und zu.

Examples

"Er wirkt bisweilen etwas zerstreut, obwohl er sehr konzentriert arbeitet."

Natural Translation

He sometimes seems a little absent-minded, although he works very focused.

Literal Translation

He appears occasionally somewhat absent-minded, although he very focused works.

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