Language is a living, evolving entity, and understanding the nuances of word usage can significantly impact the clarity of your writing.
One common point of confusion in English is the difference between “often times” and “oftentimes.”
“Often times” is less formal and often redundant, while “oftentimes” is preferred for both formal and informal writing due to its grammatical correctness and clarity.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into these terms to clear up any confusion and help you use them correctly in your writing.

Defining the Terms
Often Times
Often times is a phrase that combines “often” and “times.”
It is often used interchangeably with “oftentimes” but is considered less formal and sometimes incorrect in modern usage.
- Definition: “Often times” means “frequently” or “many times.” For example, “He visits the museum often times” implies that he visits the museum frequently.
- Origins: The phrase “often times” can be traced back to older forms of English. Historically, people combined “often” with “times” to emphasize the frequency of an event. However, over time, this construction has fallen out of favor in formal writing.
- Common Misconceptions: Many people use “often times” because it sounds natural or familiar. However, it is not always accepted in formal writing and might be considered redundant.
Oftentimes
Oftentimes is a single word that functions similarly to “often times” but is preferred in both formal and informal contexts.
- Definition: “Oftentimes” means the same as “often” or “frequently,” and it is used to describe something that happens many times. For instance, “Oftentimes, people confuse these two terms” conveys that this confusion occurs frequently.
- Origins: “Oftentimes” is derived from an older form of English where “oft” (an old variant of “often”) was combined with “times.” It has been standardized as a single word over time, making it more acceptable in modern usage.
- Usage Notes: “Oftentimes” is considered more precise and is preferred in academic and professional writing. It avoids the redundancy found in “often times” and aligns better with formal standards.
Usage and Context
When to Use “Often Times”
- Common Scenarios: “Often times” might appear in everyday speech or informal writing. People use it when they are trying to emphasize the frequency of an occurrence.
- Correct Contexts: Although “often times” is less preferred, you might still encounter it in less formal contexts. However, using “oftentimes” is usually a safer choice for clarity and formality.
When to Use “Oftentimes”
- Common Scenarios: Use “oftentimes” in formal writing, such as academic papers, professional documents, and formal communications. It is more concise and aligns with grammatical standards.
- Formal vs. Informal: While “oftentimes” is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, it is especially important in professional and academic settings to maintain a high standard of clarity and correctness.
Grammar and Style Guidelines
Grammar Rules
- Grammar Check: Both “often times” and “oftentimes” serve the same purpose, but “oftentimes” is grammatically more correct. “Often times” can be redundant and awkward, as “often” and “times” essentially convey the same meaning.
- Consistency: Use “oftentimes” consistently in your writing to ensure grammatical accuracy. Switching between “often times” and “oftentimes” can confuse readers and affect the professionalism of your text.
Style Considerations
- Formal Writing: “Oftentimes” is preferred in professional and academic writing due to its formality and correctness. It helps avoid redundancy and aligns with grammatical norms.
- Clarity and Precision: Using “oftentimes” instead of “often times” enhances readability and clarity. It ensures that your writing is concise and aligns with modern English standards.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistake Examples
- Incorrect Usage:
- “Often times, students struggle with grammar rules.”
- “He often times forgets to submit his reports.”
- Impact on Communication: Using “often times” incorrectly can make your writing appear less polished and professional. It may also cause confusion or misinterpretation.
Correction Tips
- Practical Tips:
- Always prefer “oftentimes” in formal writing.
- When in doubt, consult a reliable grammar guide or style manual.
- Proofreading Advice:
- Use grammar-checking tools to catch incorrect usage of “often times.”
- Review your writing to ensure consistency in using “oftentimes.”
People Questions
What is the difference between “often times” and “oftentimes”?
“Often times” is an outdated and less formal phrase, while “oftentimes” is grammatically correct and preferred in modern writing.
Is “often times” grammatically correct?
“Often times” is not technically incorrect but is considered redundant and less suitable for formal writing.
When should I use “oftentimes”?
Use “oftentimes” in both formal and informal contexts for clarity and professionalism in writing.
Conclusion
In summary, understanding the difference between “often times” and “oftentimes” is crucial for clear and effective communication. While “often times” might be used informally, “oftentimes” is the preferred term for both formal and informal contexts. By using “oftentimes,” you maintain grammatical accuracy and enhance the professionalism of your writing.
Final Thoughts: Paying attention to these nuances in language usage can significantly improve the clarity and effectiveness of your communication.
Review your writing for these terms and practice using “oftentimes” correctly.
Call to Action: Check your recent documents or communications for the usage of “often times” and replace it with “oftentimes” where appropriate.
This small change can make a big difference in your writing’s clarity and professionalism.
Additional Resources
- Further Reading: For more information on grammar and style, consider reading “The Elements of Style” by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White or “The Chicago Manual of Style.”
- Tools: Use grammar-checking tools like Grammarly or Hemingway to assist with proper usage and avoid common mistakes.
This detailed guide provides a clear understanding of the difference between “often times” and “oftentimes,” ensuring you use these terms correctly in your writing.