For the time being

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "For the time being" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate a temporary situation or condition that is expected to change in the future. Example: "We will continue to work from home for the time being until it is safe to return to the office."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

For the time being, no cellphone.

The New York Times

For the time being, it still can.

The Economist

For the time being, anyway.

The Guardian - Sport

For the time being they haven't asked".

Independent

For the time being, that seems unlikely.

The New York Times

For the time being we have failed".

The Guardian

For the time being be the same".

The New Yorker

For the Time Being By Annie Dillard.

The New York Times - Books

For the time being, not everyone agrees.

The New Yorker

For the time being, nothing changes".

The Guardian

For the time being.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "for the time being", ensure that the context clearly indicates the temporary nature of the situation. Avoid using it when a more permanent solution is intended or implied.

Common error

Avoid using "for the time being" when you actually mean something will continue indefinitely. A temporary fix implies a planned future change, while an indefinite situation has no planned end.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "For the time being" functions as an adverbial phrase. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and common usage, indicating a temporary state or action. It modifies a verb or clause to specify the duration of an action or condition.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "For the time being" is a versatile and grammatically sound adverbial phrase used to denote a temporary state. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across diverse contexts, primarily in news and media, but also in science and more informal settings. Its purpose is to convey the non-permanent nature of a situation, implying an expectation of future change. When using "For the time being", ensure clarity and avoid confusing it with indefinite or permanent conditions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In the meantime

This alternative emphasizes the period between two events, focusing on what happens during that interval.

For now

This is a shorter, more informal way of saying "For the time being", implying a temporary arrangement.

For the moment

Similar to "For now", this indicates a current situation that may change soon, but it can sometimes be a bit more emphatic about the potential for swift change.

At present

This phrase is more formal and emphasizes the current state of affairs, without necessarily implying a change in the future.

Temporarily

This single-word adverb directly conveys the temporary nature of a situation or action.

In the short term

This phrase specifies that the condition or action is limited to a brief period in the future.

Provisionally

This term suggests a more formal or official temporary arrangement, often used in legal or administrative contexts.

For the interim

This emphasizes the period between two more permanent arrangements or decisions.

Until further notice

This phrase is typically used when an action or state will continue until an official announcement indicates otherwise.

As a temporary measure

This explicitly frames the situation as a temporary solution to a problem or need.

FAQs

What does "For the time being" mean?

"For the time being" means temporarily or for the present moment. It indicates that a situation or action is not permanent and is expected to change in the future.

How can I use "For the time being" in a sentence?

You can use "For the time being" to indicate a temporary arrangement. For example, "We will continue to work from home for the time being until the office is safe to reopen."

What are some alternatives to "For the time being"?

Alternatives to "For the time being" include phrases like "for now", "in the meantime", or "at present", depending on the context.

Is "For the time being" formal or informal?

"For the time being" is generally considered neutral in formality. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although phrases like "at present" might be preferred in more formal writing.