fits and starts

/fˈɪts and stˈɑːts/

/fˈɪts ænd stˈɑːɹts/

[phrase]

fits and starts

[PHRASE]

something that cannot continue to work or make progress without stops or interruptions

What is the origin of the idiom "fits and starts" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "fits and starts" can be traced back to the Middle English period. The phrase has been in use since the 16th century and has since become a commonly used idiom in the English language to describe a stop-and-start pattern or inconsistent progress. Its origin lies in the observation of human behavior and the recognition of the unpredictable and sporadic nature of certain actions or processes.

Examples

1. Equality often comes in fits and starts but we've seen over the long course, over the long arch of history, that we do move forward.

2. Trail-blazing industries tend to suffer from fits and starts, and this one is no different.

3. He spoke in fits and starts.

4. Technology advances by fits and starts.