Grammar fix
time after time
repeated occasions
Used when something happens repeatedly on many separate occasions, often with the same result.
expression
How oftenCommon
LevelB2
Used inSpeech & writing
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
The local team has shown time after time that it can compete with the best clubs.
My first car broke down time after time, usually on the motorway, so in the end I just sold it for parts.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: The same problem happened time by time.
Say: The same problem happened time after time.
The fixed phrase is 'time after time', not 'time by time'.
Don't confuse it
Other ways to say it
Happen many, many times
How formal?ConversationalMore polished
over and over againEveryday emphasis on repetition, often with frustration.
time after timeYou're here · Repeated occasions, often with the same result.
time and againSlightly more formal; it keeps happening despite efforts.