by fits and starts

In short, inconsistent, and irregular intervals, as of motion or progress. The car was almost completely broken down, but by fits and starts, we were able to get it to a mechanic. A: "How's the essay coming along?" B: "Oh, by fits and starts."

Common Names:

Name	Pronounced	Usage
Fabian	FAH-bee-ahn (German, Dutch), FAH-byahn (Polish), FAY-bee-ən (English)	German, Dutch, Polish, History
Ross	RAWS (English)	Scottish, English
Oluf	-	Danish
Cedar	SEE-dər	English (Rare)
Sushil	-	Indian, Hindi, Marathi, Nepali
TÀMhas	-	Scottish