by fits and starts

Meaning

1. by / in fits and starts

   frequently starting and stopping again; not continuously

   Because of other commitments I can only write my book in fits and starts.

In the movies · 2

• Fits and starts.Can You Ever Forgive Me?2018
• Unlikely to be fit for the start of the season.Living2022

Learn it in full scenes

• Can You Ever Forgive Me?2018
  • Lee Meets Jack Hock
  • Lee Asks to Be Paid in Cash
  • Lee Tells Jack Her Secret

From the same entry

• fit like a glove
• fill the bill
• answer a description
• face doesn't fit
• if the shoe fits
• fit in
• fit in
• fit out
• fit up
• fit as a fiddle
• fit for purpose
• see fit