Time is short

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Time is short" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express urgency or the limited amount of time available to complete a task or make a decision. Example: "We need to finalize the project proposal quickly because time is short before the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Time is short.

The New York Times

"Time is short," he added.

Independent

"Time is short," she said.

The New York Times

Time is short now.

The Guardian - Books

Time is short for Gannon.

The New York Times - Sports

Time is short, nerves frayed.

The Guardian

Time is short for our counterattack.

The New York Times

"Time is short to build many hotels," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Time is short and the stakes are high," he said.

The Guardian

Time is short, and the author is being difficult.

The New Yorker

Time is short: the state released its list of nearly 300 failing schools in early June.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Time is short" to create a sense of urgency when deadlines are approaching or immediate action is needed. This phrase is effective in motivating people to prioritize tasks and avoid procrastination.

Common error

Avoid using "Time is short" excessively in your writing. Overuse can dilute its impact and make your message seem repetitive or alarmist. Instead, vary your language with alternatives like "time is limited" or "the deadline is approaching" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Time is short" functions primarily as an expression of urgency or a warning about limited time availability. It highlights the need for prompt action or decision-making, as supported by the numerous examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "Time is short" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey urgency and the limited availability of time. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness and common usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While effective in motivating action, it should be used judiciously to avoid diluting its impact. Alternatives like "time is limited" or "the deadline is approaching" can offer variety. Remember, as numerous sources underscore, when "Time is short", prioritization and promptness are key.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

There's little time left

Emphasizes the limited amount of time remaining.

We're running out of time

Highlights the depletion of available time.

The clock is ticking

A more metaphorical way to indicate that time is passing quickly and deadlines are approaching.

Time is of the essence

Stresses the importance and urgency of the situation.

We're pressed for time

Indicates a situation where time is limited and there's a sense of urgency.

Time is running out

Directly states the dwindling availability of time.

The deadline is near

Focuses on the approaching deadline and the need for swift action.

Act quickly

A direct imperative emphasizing the necessity of immediate action.

Hurry up

An informal way to express the need for speed and promptness.

Don't delay

Implies that delaying is not an option and immediate action is required.

FAQs

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

You can use "Time is short" to emphasize the urgency of a situation. For example: "We need to make a decision quickly because "time is short"." It's often used when a deadline is approaching or immediate action is required.

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

Instead of "Time is short", you could say "time is limited", "we are running out of time", or "the deadline is approaching" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "Time is short"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Time" is the subject, "is" is the verb, and "short" is the adjective describing the state of time. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase follows standard grammar rules.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "Time is short"?

The phrase is suitable in situations where there is a sense of urgency or when a task needs to be completed quickly due to a limited amount of available time. It is often used in project management, negotiations, and emergency situations.