  Ever Now and AgainIn Appalachian speech, "ever now and again" means occasionally or every once in a while. It’s a folksy twist on "now and again," adding that mountain flavor with "ever." Hillbilly Dude Says...  I say 'ever now and again', well... ever now and again. Pronunciation[EV-ur nau ’n uh-GIN] or [EV-ur nau ’n uh-GEN] Meaning & Usage- Occasionally / Every Once in a While (adverb phrase)
Mae:
You get down to Knoxville much?
Earl:
Ever now and again.
Ruby:
You still play the banjo?
Estel:
Ever now and again, when I get the chance.other spellings: ever now and again, ever now ’n agin, every now and again (related), and now and again (related) ★ If you hear "ever now and again," it’s the same as "every once in a while." The "ever" adds emphasis, giving it a more Appalachian feel. ★ OriginFrom the older English phrase "now and again," meaning occasionally. In Appalachian dialect, "ever" was added for rhythm and emphasis, creating the distinct local form "ever now and again." NotesCommon in Appalachian storytelling and casual speech, especially among older generations. "Ever now and again" shows how mountain talk adds extra flavor to everyday English. Say It Like a SouthernerSay it easy and smooth: "ever now ’n agin." The "and" nearly disappears, and "again" often comes out "agin." | About We are a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia, but wide as the world. Read more... |
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