Time is running short

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Time is running short" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that there is little time left to complete a task or make a decision. Example: "As the deadline approaches, I must remind everyone that time is running short for submitting your reports."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Time is running short.

The Washington Post

"Time is running short," Mr. Bush said.

The New York Times

Time is running short to save this valuable facility.

The New York Times

"Time is running short," said Hisham Kassem, a newspaper publisher.

The New York Times

Time is running short for G.M. and Chrysler.

The New York Times

Time is running short to find a solution to avoid a Greek default.

The Economist

Time is running short for Mr. Santorum, Mr. Gingrich and other rivals to slow his momentum.

The New York Times

Time is running short to preserve knowledge that he believes is important for all of humankind.

The New York Times

Time is running short for Santorum and other Republican candidates who hope to slow frontrunner Mitt Romney's drive towards the Republican presidential nomination.

The Guardian

Time is running short to save training camps (slated for Oct. 3) and preseason games (which begin Oct. 9), which makes Tuesday's meeting a potential make-or-break affair.

The New York Times - Sports

Time is running short before Washington DC turns its attention to the 2016 race to elect his successor, threatening to sideline him even with three years remaining in office.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Time is running short" to create a sense of urgency when deadlines or critical moments are approaching. It's effective in both formal and informal settings to prompt immediate action.

Common error

Avoid using "Time is running short" repeatedly in a short span, as it can diminish its impact. Instead, vary your language with alternatives like "time is of the essence" or "the clock is ticking" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Time is running short" functions as an idiomatic expression used to emphasize the limited amount of time available to complete a task or make a decision. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase follows standard grammatical rules.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Academia

14%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Time is running short" is a commonly used phrase to express the urgency of a situation where time is limited. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for a range of contexts, although alternatives may be more appropriate in highly formal settings. It's frequently found in news media but also appears in academic and business contexts, serving to prompt swift action. When using it, be mindful of overuse and consider varying your language with alternatives to maintain impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Time is of the essence

Emphasizes the importance of acting quickly due to limited time.

The clock is ticking

Highlights the continuous passage of time and the need for prompt action.

We're running out of time

Directly states the depletion of available time.

There's no time to lose

Indicates that immediate action is necessary.

Time is slipping away

Suggests a gradual but unstoppable loss of time.

We're pressed for time

Indicates that there isn't much time available.

The deadline is fast approaching

Focuses on the nearness of a specific time limit.

We're on a tight schedule

Indicates a limited and strictly planned timeframe.

There isn't much time left

Simply states the scarcity of remaining time.

Time is passing quickly

Emphasizes the rapid progression of time.

FAQs

How can I use "Time is running short" in a sentence?

You can use "Time is running short" to emphasize the urgency of a situation, like in the sentence, "We need to finalize the contract soon because "time is running short"."

What are some alternatives to "Time is running short"?

Alternatives include "time is of the essence", "we're running out of time", or "the clock is ticking", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "Time is running short" in a formal setting?

Yes, "Time is running short" is appropriate in formal settings, especially when conveying the need for timely action. However, ensure the tone remains professional. In very formal settings, "time is of the essence" might be more suitable.

What's the difference between "Time is running short" and "Time is running out"?

Both phrases convey urgency, but "Time is running short" emphasizes the limited amount of time remaining, while "Time is running out" suggests that the deadline is very close or has almost passed. The best option depends on the specific situation.