In a timely manner

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "In a timely manner" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something should be done promptly or within an appropriate timeframe. Example: "Please ensure that all reports are submitted in a timely manner to meet the project deadlines."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

While most fractures heal spontaneously, 5 to 10% fail to heal in a timely manner [40].

Plosone

That it will be implemented; 2. That this will be done in a timely manner; 3.

BMC Health Services Research

He always made sure that it was done in a timely manner" {221}.

BMC Cancer

CHS have an important role in managing 80% of the local demands for health care in a timely manner (2).

Global Health Action

Cash inflows should be bigger than cash outflows so that the loan can be paid in a timely manner.[7].

WikiHow

However, despite policy initiatives, services are not universally available or provided in a timely manner [ 9].

BMC Palliative Care

Women value quality information that is provided by the health professional in a timely manner [ 14].

BMC Health Services Research

Thus, failure to phosphorylate Shs1 causes a failure to inactivate Swe1 in a timely manner at the G2/M transition.

Plosone

Most outbreaks would be detected in a timely manner by the 7-day total system.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

To discharge the challenging mandate in a timely manner, I have announced 13 investigations to date.

The Guardian - Opinion

N.B.A. LEAGUE -- Fined Portland coach Maurice Cheeks $7,500 for failing to leave the court in a timely manner in a Dec. 9 game at Utah.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in a timely manner" when you want to emphasize the importance of doing something within an appropriate or expected timeframe, especially when delays could have negative consequences.

Common error

While "in a timely manner" is a correct and useful phrase, avoid using it excessively in your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "promptly", "expeditiously", or "without delay" to make your writing more engaging and less repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a timely manner" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate when or how an action is performed. It specifies that an action should be carried out efficiently and without undue delay. As Ludwig points out, the phrase is correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in a timely manner" functions as an adverbial phrase to emphasize the importance of completing tasks promptly and efficiently. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and sees very common usage across diverse fields such as science, news, and formal business communications. While versatile, it's important to avoid overuse and consider synonyms like "promptly" or "expeditiously" for variety. Using "in a timely manner" effectively means understanding its communicative purpose which is to underscore urgency and adherence to appropriate deadlines and time frames.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Promptly

A more direct and concise synonym, emphasizing speed and immediacy.

In a prompt fashion

A more formal alternative, emphasizing speed and efficiency.

Expeditiously

Similar to promptly, but suggests efficiency and a lack of delay.

Without delay

Highlights the absence of waiting or postponement.

With speed

Focuses on the quickness of the action.

As soon as possible

Commonly used phrase that focus to do anything very quickly.

In due time

Suggests action will be taken at the appropriate or expected time, rather than immediately.

In short order

Suggests something will be done quickly and efficiently.

At the earliest opportunity

Implies doing something as soon as it is feasible.

On time

Means punctual, adhering to schedule

FAQs

How can I use "in a timely manner" in a sentence?

You can use "in a timely manner" to describe when something is done efficiently and without unnecessary delay. For instance, "Please submit your reports "in a timely manner" to meet the deadline."

What are some alternatives to "in a timely manner"?

Alternatives include phrases like "promptly", "expeditiously", or "without delay". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to use "in a timely manner" or "on time"?

"In a timely manner" generally refers to completing something within an acceptable timeframe, while "on time" refers to adhering to a specific schedule or deadline. They are not always interchangeable.

What does "in a timely manner" mean?

"In a timely manner" means that something is done efficiently and promptly, appropriate for the circumstances. It suggests that the action is taken without unnecessary delay.