Oftentimes vs Often Times: Which One Is Correct?

Oftentimes is the correct, standard word. Often times (two words) is considered nonstandard and should be avoided in formal writing.

Both mean “frequently,” but only one holds up in dictionaries and style guides.

What Does Oftentimes Mean?

Oftentimes is an adverb that means “frequently” or “many times.” It’s a single word, formed by combining “often” with the old suffix “-times.”

You’ll find it in major dictionaries, including Merriam-Webster, as a legitimate variant of “often.” It works well in both writing and speech.

Example Sentences Using Oftentimes

• Oftentimes, the simplest solution is the best one.
• She oftentimes forgets her keys at home.
• Oftentimes, patience matters more than skill.

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What Does Often Times Mean?

Often times, written as two words, tries to convey the same meaning as “oftentimes.” But grammatically, it’s treated as an error rather than an accepted variant.

Is Often Times a Real Word?

No. Often times is not recognized as a standard term by major dictionaries. It likely spread through casual writing and got mistaken for a valid alternative.

Example Sentences Using Often Times

• Often times, people confuse this phrase with “oftentimes.” (nonstandard)
• We often times skip breakfast. (incorrect usage)

Oftentimes vs Often Times

Feature	Oftentimes	Often Times
Word count	One word	Two words
Dictionary status	Standard	Nonstandard
Style guide support	Accepted	Not recommended
Best use	Formal & casual writing	Avoid

Grammar and Spelling Differences

Oftentimes is one compound word, functioning as a single adverb.

Often times splits it into two words, which breaks the grammatical structure dictionaries recognize.

Formal vs Informal Usage

In formal writing—essays, business documents, published articles—oftentimes is the safe, correct choice.

“Often times” can slip into casual texts or conversations but should still be avoided when possible.

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Which Is Correct:

Oftentimes is correct. Style guides and dictionaries confirm this consistently.

What Style Guides Say

Many editors recommend using plain “often” instead of either form, since it’s shorter and just as clear.

Dictionary Standing

Merriam-Webster lists oftentimes as a standard adverb. “Often times” does not appear as a separate dictionary entry, reinforcing that it’s not standard usage.

Common Mistakes People Make

Writers often misuse this pair without realizing it. Here are the most frequent slip-ups.

Using Often Times in Formal Writing

Using “often times” in a resume, report, or article can look like a typo. Editors and readers may see it as a grammar error.

Overusing Either Term

Even correct oftentimes can feel heavy if repeated too much. Swapping in “often” keeps sentences lighter and easier to read.

Side-by-Side Usage Examples

• Correct: Oftentimes, the truth is simpler than we think.
• Incorrect: Often times, the truth is simpler than we think.

Conclusion

Oftentimes is the grammatically correct word; often times is not. When unsure, the simplest fix is using plain “often”—it’s shorter, clearer, and always correct.

FAQs About Oftentimes vs Often Times

Is oftentimes grammatically correct?

Yes, oftentimes is a standard adverb recognized by major dictionaries and accepted in both formal and casual writing.

Is often times one word or two?

It should be one word: oftentimes. The two-word version is considered a common spelling mistake.

Which is more formal, oftentimes or often times?

Oftentimes is the formal, dictionary-approved choice; “often times” is a nonstandard variant to avoid in professional writing.

Can I use oftentimes and often times interchangeably?

No. Only oftentimes is correct; “often times” is a widely repeated error, not an accepted alternative.

What’s a simpler alternative to both?

Just use “often”. It’s shorter, universally correct, and avoids any confusion tied to this word pair.

(Note: British usage sometimes shows more tolerance for split phrasing, but standard guides still favor “often” or “oftentimes.”)