Given the hour

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Given the hour" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the current time or the time of day when making a decision or observation. Example: "Given the hour, we should probably consider wrapping up the meeting soon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

"Given the hour, he was already asleep.

The New York Times

Given the hour, the teams agreed to scrap their remaining doubles match.

The New York Times - Sports

Given the hour that yesterday's earthquake rattled the streets, many people were asleep and never noticed it.

The New York Times

Given the hour, we limited ourselves to a few sips of chardonnay and resolved to return for their well-regarded winery tour.

The New York Times - Travel

Given the hour, now is the time for followers of Jesus to forego our preoccupation with respectability.

Huffington Post

Given the city, given the history, given the hour, it was probably inevitable -- and right -- that Pope Benedict XVI's visit to Rome's main synagogue should generate "provocative remarks".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Wounded by the bullet of a would-be assassin in 1912, he refused to go to hospital until he had given the hour-long speech that he was due to give.

Independent

Just as well, given the hours he has to work.

The Guardian - Money

She is available to work full time but is not given the hours.

The Guardian - Money

Given the hours and the extremely limited exposure, being an overnight anchor is a job without great appeal.

The New Yorker

Ms. Esparza: We just met with our accountant and we're very happy, given the hours we have.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "Given the hour" with a clear explanation of the consequences of the time, to make your statement more persuasive.

Common error

Don't use "Given the hour" if you are simply stating the time. It is best used when the time influences a decision or action, not as a standalone statement of the time.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Given the hour" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a reason or justification for a subsequent action or statement. It often indicates that the current time is a significant factor influencing the decision. Ludwig AI confirms that the expression is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Travel

14%

Lifestyle

14%

Less common in

Science

14%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Given the hour" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate that the current time influences a decision or action. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in written English. While generally neutral in tone, the phrase is most commonly found in news and lifestyle contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the time is indeed a relevant factor influencing the situation. Alternative phrases such as "considering the time" or "in light of the hour" can provide similar meaning depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Considering the time

Focuses on acknowledging the current time as a factor in decision-making.

In light of the hour

Emphasizes the lateness or earliness of the hour as a relevant consideration.

Due to the time

Highlights the time as a direct cause or reason for a specific action.

Because of the hour

Similar to 'due to the time' but with a slightly stronger causal emphasis.

Given how late it is

Specifically acknowledges the lateness of the hour.

Considering it's so early

Highlights the earliness of the hour.

Seeing as it's late

Similar to 'given how late it is', implying a conclusion based on the time.

As it's getting late

Focuses on the progression towards lateness.

With the hour being what it is

A more formal and indirect way of acknowledging the time.

Based on the current time

Highlights that time is the basis for the decision

FAQs

What does "Given the hour" mean?

"Given the hour" is an expression used to indicate that a decision or action is influenced by the current time, typically implying it is late or early.

How can I use "Given the hour" in a sentence?

You can use "Given the hour" to explain why you are suggesting a change of plans, for example, "Given the hour, we should probably head home".

What can I say instead of "Given the hour"?

You can use alternatives like "considering the time", "in light of the hour", or "due to the time" depending on the context.

Is "Given the hour" formal or informal?

"Given the hour" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. The specific context determines the perceived formality. You might use a more direct expression in very informal contexts.