seasonally
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈiːzənəli/
US
- /ˈsizənəli/
- /ˈsiznəli/
Description
- at certain times of year
- tied to the seasons
- once each year at a set time
- following the yearly cycle
Just as pumpkins appear in autumn and snowdrops in spring, the word "seasonally" describes things that happen or are available only at certain times of the year. It's more than just "sometimes"; it's tied to the regular pattern of the seasons. A farmer might hire extra help seasonally during harvest time, meaning they need more hands for a limited period linked to the growing cycle. You might also see numbers adjusted seasonally in economics, with changes made to account for regular yearly patterns like the rise in holiday shopping. Think of it as nature's clock deciding when something appears or happens.
The word "seasonally" describes things that are connected to, and happen during, particular seasons of the year. It implies a recurring pattern tied to the natural cycle of spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Unlike "occasionally," which suggests something happening at random intervals, "seasonally" points to a predictable pattern linked to specific months or climate shifts.
You'll often encounter this term in agriculture: "Farmers plant and harvest seasonally, taking advantage of favorable weather conditions." It is equally common in retail and tourism. A store might refresh its inventory seasonally to prepare for the holidays, or a resort might see its visitor numbers peak seasonally during the warm summer months.
Beyond these practical uses, "seasonally" can describe changes in mood or behavior linked to the time of year. For instance, many people find that their energy levels change seasonally based on the amount of sunlight available. In ecology, animals may migrate seasonally to find better feeding grounds. Even the fashion industry works seasonally, with new styles appearing to match the changing weather. If something happens at a certain time each year in a way that is clearly linked to the turning of the calendar, it can be described as happening seasonally. It is a word about repetition, timing, and the way the natural year shapes life.
Examples
- 1
Restaurant menu
The restaurant changes its menu seasonally, so some dishes disappear after summer.
- 2
Food availability
Fresh berries are available only seasonally at the local market.
- 3
Seasonal jobs
The resort hires additional workers seasonally during the winter ski months.
- 4
Energy demand
Electricity use rises seasonally when the weather gets very hot or very cold.
- 5
Economic data
The unemployment rate fell last month, but economists are waiting for the seasonally adjusted figures.
Phrase
seasonally adjusted figures
numbers changed to remove normal seasonal changes
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- seasonallyadverb