Every Other – Meaning and Examples
We often need to describe patterns where things alternate or happen on a skipping schedule. In English, we use the phrase every other to describe these alternating sequences. This practical idiom helps talk about schedules, patterns, and frequency in daily life.
What Does “Every Other” Mean?
“Every other” means each second one in a series, alternating between items or time periods. Think of it like a checkerboard pattern—you take one, skip one, take the next. It describes a pattern where you select or do something, then skip the next, then select or do the following one.
When to Use It
Use this idiom when describing alternating schedules or routines. Use it when talking about selecting items in a skipping pattern. Use it for frequency that occurs on alternate time periods. It is a neutral, practical phrase for describing patterns and schedules.
Example Sentences
- I visit my grandparents every other weekend.
- Please write on every other line of the paper.
- Our team meeting happens every other Tuesday.
- She colors every other tile to create a pattern.
Mini Dialogue
Manager: “How often should we schedule the department cleaning?”
Supervisor: “Let’s do it every other Friday. That way it’s regular but not too frequent.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Remember, this idiom describes an alternating pattern. Don’t use it when you mean “all” or “each.”
❌ Don’t say: “I exercise every other day of the week.” (If you mean daily, use “every”).
✅ Do say: “I exercise every other day—Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.”
Practice Tip
Look at your calendar and identify one recurring event or task. Create a sentence using “every other” to describe an alternating schedule, such as “I [activity] every other [day/week/month].” For example, “I do grocery shopping every other Saturday.”
Final Note
You now know how to use “every other” to describe alternating patterns, skipping sequences, and alternating time schedules. This practical phrase will help you talk about routines, selections, and frequencies in a clear, precise way. Use it to describe any situation where things happen or are selected in an alternating pattern!