Repeatedly vs Repetitively: Which One Is The Correct One?

Are you using the words ‘repeatedly’ and ‘repetitively’ interchangeably? While these two words may seem similar in meaning, they have distinct definitions that set them apart from each other. In this article, we will explore the differences between repeatedly vs repetitively and determine which one is the correct word to use in different contexts.

Repeatedly means to do something over and over again, while repetitively means to do something in a way that is boring or tedious. While both words refer to doing something multiple times, repeatedly implies a sense of purpose or intention, while repetitively implies a sense of monotony or lack of variation.

In this article, we will delve deeper into the nuances of repeatedly vs repetitively and provide examples of how to use each word correctly. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of when to use each word and how to use them effectively in your writing.

Define Repeatedly

Repeatedly is an adverb that means to do something over and over again, with a certain frequency or regularity. It implies a pattern of behavior that is consistent and predictable. The action or behavior is done multiple times, but there may be some variation or interruption between each repetition.

Define Repetitively

Repetitively is an adverb that means to do something over and over again, with little or no variation. It implies a lack of creativity or spontaneity in the action or behavior, and a tendency to stick to a rigid routine or pattern. The action or behavior is done in a mechanical or automatic way, without much thought or effort.

Here is a table summarizing the main differences between repeatedly and repetitively:

	Repeatedly	Repetitively
Meaning	To do something over and over again, with some variation	To do something over and over again, with little or no variation
Frequency	Regular or intermittent	Regular or constant
Implies	Consistency and predictability	Rigidity and lack of creativity

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

As a writer, it is essential to use the right words in a sentence to avoid any confusion or ambiguity. In this section, we will discuss the proper usage of the words “repeatedly” and “repetitively.”

How To Use “Repeatedly” In A Sentence

The word “repeatedly” is an adverb that means to do something over and over again. It is used to describe an action that is done repeatedly, often with a certain frequency or interval. Here are some examples:

• He repeatedly asked me to join him for dinner.
• The dog barked repeatedly until I let him inside.
• The politician repeatedly denied the allegations against him.

Note that “repeatedly” is often used with verbs in the past tense to describe an action that happened multiple times in the past.

How To Use “Repetitively” In A Sentence

The word “repetitively” is an adverb that means to do something in a repetitive or monotonous manner. It is used to describe an action that is done repeatedly without any variation or change. Here are some examples:

• She typed the same sentence repetitively for an hour.
• The assembly line worker performed the same task repetitively for eight hours a day.
• The child sang the same song repetitively until everyone in the car was annoyed.

Note that “repetitively” is often used with verbs in the present tense to describe an action that is currently happening or will happen in the future.

More Examples Of Repeatedly & Repetitively Used In Sentences

In this section, we will provide more examples of how to use the words “repeatedly” and “repetitively” in sentences. These examples will help you to better understand the meaning of each word and how they can be used in context.

Examples Of Using “Repeatedly” In A Sentence

• He repeatedly told his son to clean his room, but he never listened.
• The teacher repeatedly reminded her students about the upcoming test.
• The athlete repeatedly lifted weights to build his strength.
• The company’s profits have repeatedly increased over the past few years.
• She repeatedly checked her phone for messages from her friend.
• The politician repeatedly denied any wrongdoing.
• The dog repeatedly barked at the mailman.
• The child repeatedly asked for a cookie.
• The singer repeatedly practiced her song before the concert.
• The car repeatedly broke down on long road trips.

As you can see from these examples, “repeatedly” is used to describe actions that are done over and over again.

Examples Of Using “Repetitively” In A Sentence

• The factory worker performed the same task repetitively for eight hours a day.
• The pianist played the same notes repetitively until she got them right.
• The writer used the same word repetitively in her essay.
• The patient complained of pain in his wrist from typing repetitively at work.
• The child stacked the blocks repetitively, enjoying the sound they made when they fell.
• The athlete trained repetitively to perfect her technique.
• The machine beeped repetitively to indicate an error.
• The customer service representative answered the same question repetitively throughout the day.
• The dancer practiced the same routine repetitively until it was flawless.
• The student tapped her pencil repetitively on her desk, distracting her classmates.

These examples demonstrate the use of “repetitively” to describe actions that are done repeatedly, but with a sense of monotony or boredom.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using language, even the most seasoned writers can make mistakes. One of the most common mistakes is using the words “repeatedly” and “repetitively” interchangeably. While they may seem similar, they have distinct meanings and should not be used in place of each other.

Using “Repeatedly” Vs “Repetitively”

Repeatedly means doing something over and over again, with the emphasis on the action itself. For example, “She repeatedly checked her phone for messages.” In this sentence, the focus is on the action of checking the phone multiple times.

Repetitively, on the other hand, means doing something in a way that is boring or tedious, with the emphasis on the manner in which the action is done. For example, “He typed the same sentence repetitively, without making any progress.” In this sentence, the focus is on the repetitive nature of typing the same sentence repeatedly.

Using these words interchangeably can lead to confusion and misunderstandings. For example, if someone says “He repeatedly complained about the noise,” it implies that he complained multiple times. If someone says “He complained repetitively about the noise,” it implies that he complained in a boring or tedious manner.

Tips To Avoid Confusing The Two Words

• Pay attention to the context in which the words are being used
• Think about the emphasis of the sentence – is it on the action or the manner in which it is done?
• Use a thesaurus to find alternative words if you are unsure

By taking the time to understand the difference between “repeatedly” and “repetitively,” you can avoid making common mistakes and improve the clarity of your writing.

Context Matters

When it comes to using the words repeatedly and repetitively, context is key. The choice between these two words can depend on the specific context in which they are used. It’s important to understand the nuances of each word to ensure that you are using the correct one in the appropriate situation.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Let’s take a look at some examples of different contexts and how the choice between repeatedly and repetitively might change:

Context	Example Sentence	Correct Word Choice
Music	The chorus is repeated throughout the song.	Repeatedly
Exercise	I perform the same exercise repetitively to build muscle.	Repetitively
Behavior	He repeatedly interrupts others during conversations.	Repeatedly
Manufacturing	The machine repetitively produces the same part.	Repetitively

As you can see from these examples, the choice between repeatedly and repetitively depends on the specific context in which they are used. In the context of music and behavior, repeatedly is the correct choice. However, in the context of exercise and manufacturing, repetitively is the better option.

It’s important to note that while these words may seem interchangeable, using the wrong one can result in confusion or misinterpretation. By understanding the context in which they are used, you can ensure that you are using the correct word and effectively conveying your message.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using “repeatedly” and “repetitively” are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions where they may not apply.

Exceptions For “Repeatedly”

One exception to the rule for using “repeatedly” is when referring to something that is done in quick succession, but not necessarily in the same exact way each time. In this case, “repeatedly” may be used instead of “repetitively” to convey the idea of something being done multiple times, but not necessarily in a monotonous or predictable manner.

For example:

• She repeatedly checked her phone for messages throughout the day.
• The child repeatedly asked for a snack, but his mother refused each time.

Exceptions For “Repetitively”

Similarly, there are some cases where “repetitively” may be used instead of “repeatedly” to describe something that is done in a predictable or monotonous manner, even if it is not necessarily done multiple times.

For example:

• The machine repetitively stamped out parts for the assembly line.
• The song’s chorus was played repetitively throughout the entire concert.

It is important to note that these exceptions are not always clear-cut and may depend on the context in which the words are being used. As with any language rule, it is best to consider the intended meaning and choose the word that best conveys that meaning.

Practice Exercises

One of the best ways to improve your understanding and use of repeatedly and repetitively is through practice exercises. Here are some exercises to help you master these two words:

Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank

Choose the correct word (repeatedly or repetitively) to fill in the blank in each sentence below:

1. He __________ told me not to touch the hot stove.
2. The dog barked __________ until the mailman left.
3. She __________ checked her phone for messages.
4. The assembly line worker __________ placed the same part on the car.
5. The child __________ asked for a snack.

Answer Key:

1. repeatedly
2. repeatedly
3. repetitively
4. repetitively
5. repeatedly

Exercise 2: Identify The Correct Word

Choose the correct word (repeatedly or repetitively) to complete each sentence below:

1. The pianist played the same tune __________.
2. The teacher asked the student to say the word __________.
3. The athlete __________ practiced her routine.
4. The writer __________ used the same phrase throughout the book.
5. The child __________ asked for a snack.

Answer Key:

1. repeatedly
2. repeatedly
3. repetitively
4. repeatedly
5. repeatedly

By completing these exercises, you will be able to identify the correct usage of repeatedly and repetitively in sentences.

Conclusion

After exploring the subtle differences between “repeatedly” and “repetitively,” it’s clear that these two adverbs are not interchangeable. “Repeatedly” indicates that something is happening again and again, while “repetitively” implies a sense of monotony or boredom.

It’s important to pay attention to these nuances in language use, as they can greatly impact the meaning and effectiveness of your writing. By using the right word in the right context, you can convey your message more clearly and effectively.

As with any aspect of grammar and language use, there is always more to learn. By continuing to expand your knowledge and understanding of these subtleties, you can become a more skilled and effective communicator.