Meanings
Origin obscure. Perhaps an ellipsis of more often than not [often], although this doesn't appear to be very well supported in writing. Alternatively, possibly meaning more often than "zero" (see nought and naught), especially in reference to scales or gauges where mark zero represents the midpoint of measurement or frequency.
How to pronounce "more often than not":
AU
Usually; more than half the time; more likely to be the case than not to be the case.
Example: "More often than not, tomato seeds will sprout even if they are a couple of years old."
Example Sentences
1
He tends to be late for work more often than not.
2
In this household, pizza is the dinner choice more often than not.
3
She usually wins her tennis matches more often than not.
4
He is praised by his boss for his hard work more often than not.
5
In our neighborhood, recycling is practiced more often than not.
