Translation guide
Expresses that something happens occasionally, not regularly. The most common and neutral way is 時々 (ときどき). Other options vary in frequency, formality, and style.
The most general and neutral way to say that something happens from time to time, without strong emphasis on frequency or formality.
The standard, everyday word for 'sometimes' or 'from time to time'. Suitable for most situations.
時々映画を見に行きます。
I go to see a movie from time to time.
彼は時々遅刻する。
He is late from time to time.
Means 'occasionally' but implies less frequency than 時々. Often used in casual conversation.
たまに外食する。
I eat out from time to time.
A slightly more literary or formal version of 時々. Used in writing or polite speech.
時折雨が降るでしょう。
It will rain from time to time.
Emphasizes that the action occurs unpredictably or sporadically, not on a fixed schedule.
Still the most natural choice, but here the context highlights irregularity.
時々彼から連絡がある。
I hear from him from time to time.
Literally 'when the occasion touches', meaning whenever the opportunity arises. Formal and somewhat literary.
時々 is the default 'sometimes'. たまに implies less frequency, closer to 'once in a while'. 時折 is more formal/literary. In casual speech, 時々 and たまに are most common.
折に触れて故郷を思い出す。
I remember my hometown from time to time.