Another time

USAGE SUMMARY

"Another time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in a sentence when referring to doing something on a different occasion or in the future. Example: We can go to the movies another time.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Another time?

The New York Times

Another time, another time".

The Guardian - Sport

Another time they fight.

The New York Times

Another time, perhaps.

Independent

"Another time, though," I said.

The New York Times

"Another time, maybe".

The Guardian - Sport

Another time, another song.

The New York Times - Health

Another time with Paco.

The New Yorker

"Another time," she promises.

The New York Times

Another time, it was a skillet.

The New Yorker

Another time, she said; a familiar rebuff.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Another time" when politely declining an offer or suggesting a future meeting without setting a firm date. It's a versatile phrase suitable for both casual and slightly formal settings.

Common error

Avoid using "Another time" when a clear commitment or deadline is needed. This phrase is intentionally vague and isn't suitable when specific arrangements are necessary. Instead, use phrases such as "Let's schedule a meeting for next week" or "I'll get back to you by Friday."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Another time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb by indicating when an action might occur. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it serves to postpone or defer an event.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Another time" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to politely postpone events or decline offers, suggesting future engagement without committing to a specific date. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral in register, more formal alternatives might be preferred in professional settings. Be mindful not to use it when a firm commitment is required. Remember that while "Another time" is a good, understandable phrase, there are alternative ways to phrase the same idea that may suit your needs better.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

On another occasion

Formally suggests a different instance or event, implying a separation in time and circumstance.

We'll reschedule

Explicitly states the intention to arrange an activity for a different time.

At a later date

Emphasizes the deferral to an unspecified point in the future.

Let's postpone it

Directly indicates the act of delaying an event or action.

Some other time

Informally suggests an alternative, non-specific moment for something to occur.

At a future juncture

Formally indicates a specific, though unspecified, point in time when conditions are more suitable.

In the future

Broadly refers to any point beyond the present, lacking the direct implication of rescheduling.

Another day

Suggests postponement to a subsequent day, differing in timescale.

Subsequently

Suggests following in time or order, often in a more formal context.

Maybe later

Implies uncertainty about whether the event will happen, softening the deferral.

FAQs

How can I use "Another time" in a sentence?

You can use "Another time" to politely decline an invitation or suggest postponing an activity. For example, "I can't make it tonight, but maybe "another time"." or "Perhaps "another time" would be better for me."

What are some alternatives to saying "Another time"?

Instead of "Another time", you could say "on another occasion", "at a later date", or "some other time" depending on the context. Each has a slightly different nuance.

Is it appropriate to use "Another time" in formal situations?

While generally acceptable, "Another time" is more suited for informal or semi-formal settings. In strictly formal scenarios, consider using more precise language like "I will contact you to reschedule" or "Let's arrange a future meeting."

What does "Another time" imply when used to decline an invitation?

When used to decline, "Another time" suggests a willingness to participate in the future without making a firm commitment. It's a polite way to say 'not now' while leaving the possibility open.