Passage of time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Passage of time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the progression or flow of time, often in a reflective or philosophical context. Example: "As I look back on my life, I realize how much I've changed with the passage of time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Passage of Time" (Warner Bros).

The New York Times

Is it just the passage of time?

The Economist

The passage of time made nothing clearer.

The New York Times

The passage of time changes nothing.

The New York Times

Then there is the passage of time.

The New York Times - Books

Was it simply the passage of time?

The Guardian - Books

And the passage of time has helped.

The New York Times

Over the passage of time, tyranny revisits.

The Guardian

The passage of time only adds to the difficulty.

The Guardian - Opinion

Fossils also provide a measure of the passage of time.

The New York Times

But he is concerned about the passage of time.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Passage of time" when you want to emphasize the continuous and irreversible nature of how time elapses, often in a context that reflects on changes or developments that occur over a period.

Common error

Avoid using "Passage of time" in contexts where simpler terms like "time" or "duration" suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose or philosophical when a straightforward reference to time is more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Passage of time" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the abstract concept of time elapsing or progressing, as demonstrated by Ludwig and the numerous examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Encyclopedias

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "Passage of time" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that describes the elapsing of time. As confirmed by Ludwig, its primary function is to denote the progression of time, often implying change or reflection. While suitable for various contexts, it’s most commonly found in news, media, encyclopedias and scientific sources, lending itself to a neutral to formal tone. Related phrases include "elapsing of time" and "progression of time". When using this phrase, consider whether simpler terms might be more appropriate in very casual settings. This phrase is deemed correct and usable in written English according to Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Elapsing of time

Focuses on the continuous flowing aspect of time.

Flow of time

Highlights the continuous and uninterrupted movement of time.

Progression of time

Highlights the sequential and forward-moving nature of time.

Advancement of time

Emphasizes the forward movement and potential changes associated with time.

Course of time

Suggests a predetermined or natural path that time follows.

Unfolding of time

Suggests a gradual revelation or development over a period.

Lapse of time

Implies a period of inactivity or forgetting during the progression of time.

March of time

Evokes a sense of steady, relentless progress.

Progression of years

Specifically refers to the movement through calendar years.

Passing of years

Emphasizes the way time goes by as years go by.

FAQs

How can I use "Passage of time" in a sentence?

You can use "Passage of time" to refer to the way time goes by, often with the implication of change or reflection. For example, "The "passage of time" has changed my perspective entirely."

What phrases are similar to "Passage of time"?

Similar phrases include "elapsing of time", "progression of time", or "flow of time". These all describe the way that time moves forward.

Is it ever incorrect to use "Passage of time"?

While generally correct, using "Passage of time" might be too formal in very casual contexts. In those situations, simply using "time" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "Passage of time" and "Passing of time"?

Both "Passage of time" and "Passing of time" are quite similar and often interchangeable. However, "Passage of time" can sometimes imply a more reflective or philosophical consideration of how time elapses, while "Passing of time" might simply denote the act of time going by.