How can 'intermittent' be defined in terms of frequency?

The term 'intermittent' is best described as 'occurring at irregular intervals.' This definition captures the essence of what it means for something to happen sporadically rather than consistently. Intermittent events are characterized by a start and stop pattern, where the frequency is not uniform, leading to breaks in occurrence.

In a medical or health context, for instance, intermittent symptoms may appear and then vanish, occurring sporadically over time rather than being persistent. This understanding helps in both clinical assessments and patient communications, as it provides a clear picture of the nature of symptoms or conditions being discussed.

The other options do not align with the definition of intermittent. Continuous and steady suggests a constant occurrence without interruptions, while constant and reliable implies predictability and dependability. Periodic and predictable, while somewhat related, indicates a regular occurrence rather than the irregularity that 'intermittent' signifies. Thus, the description of occurring at irregular intervals accurately reflects the intended meaning of 'intermittent'.