Ever Once in AwhileIn Appalachian and Southern speech, "ever once in awhile" means occasionally or from time to time. It’s a folksy variant of the more standard "every once in a while." #SouthernSayings #Appalachia #Time #DialectandGrammar #Southern Hillbilly Dude Says... Hillbilly Dude Says... Pronunciation[EV-ur wunce in uh-WILE] Meaning & Usage- Occasionally / From Time to Time (adverb phrase)
Earl:
Estel:
Ruby:
Mae:
variations: ever once in awhile, ever once in a while, every once in a while, ever once ’n awhile ★ If you hear "ever once in awhile," it means the same as "every once in a while." The mountain version just drops the "y" and rolls smoother off the tongue. ★ Origin and EtymologyFrom "every once in a while," a phrase in English since at least the 1700s. In Appalachian speech, the "every" often becomes "ever," creating the local form. Usage NotesStill common in Appalachian and Southern talk. It shows up in casual storytelling, family conversation, and everyday routines. Folks might write it as "every once in a while," but say "ever once in awhile." Say It Like a SouthernerDrop the "y" in "every" and it comes out "ever." Smooth the phrase quick: "ever once in awhile." | ...
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