In formal writing or speech, 'seldom' is often used at the start of a sentence for style and emphasis. It means something happens very rarely but sounds more serious or thoughtful.
Seldom do we see such kindness in strangers.
Seldom has the city experienced such a storm.
Seldom can be used with phrases like 'if ever' to show something almost never happens. This is a stronger way to say 'very rarely'. It stresses how unusual an event or action is.
He seldom, if ever, makes mistakes.
They seldom, if at all, agree on politics.
In old or poetic use, 'seldom' can describe things or places that are rare or not used often. This usage is not common today but appears in poems and stories.
A seldom path through the ancient woods.
They lived in a seldom village far away.
Seldom is used to talk about habits or things we do from time to time but not regularly. It means sometimes, but less often than 'occasionally'.
He seldom drinks coffee in the morning.
We seldom watch TV during weekdays.
Seldom is used in special expressions to talk about rare things or moments. It often shows that what is rare is important or special to notice.
Such talent is seldom seen in young players.
Seldom does a chance like this come again.
