Translation guide
Expresses that something happens occasionally, from time to time, or at irregular intervals.
The most common, neutral way to say that something happens sometimes, but not regularly.
The most standard and widely used word for 'sometimes' or 'occasionally'. Suitable for most situations.
I go to see a movie now and then.
He is late now and then.
Very common in casual speech. Implies a lower frequency than 時々, closer to 'once in a while'.
I eat out now and then.
I hear from old friends now and then.
Slightly more formal or literary than 時々. Often used in writing or polite speech.
It will rain now and then.
Literary expression meaning 'whenever the opportunity arises' or 'from time to time'. Used in formal writing.
I remember my hometown now and then.
Emphasizes that the events are not on a fixed schedule, but happen sporadically.
Similar to たまに, but slightly more emphatic about the irregularity. Casual.
I see him now and then.
Used with a negative verb to mean 'only occasionally' or 'hardly ever'. Emphasizes rarity.
I only watch TV now and then.
時々 is the most neutral and can be used in any context. たまに is more casual and implies a lower frequency. In formal writing, 時折 is preferred.
Do not translate 'now and then' literally as 今とその時 (いまとそのとき). It does not make sense in Japanese.