a regular timetable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a regular timetable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a schedule that is consistent and follows a set pattern, often in contexts like transportation, education, or work. Example: "The train service operates on a regular timetable, ensuring that passengers can rely on consistent departure and arrival times."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Add the fact that freight trains do not stick to a regular timetable, but run variable services at short notice to meet demand, and the scope for congestion grows.Return of regulationThe freight railroads have learned to live with the limited Amtrak passenger services on their tracks.

The Economist

In the majority opinion in the Seville case, the justices said that the women observed a regular timetable and rented space for their belongings and that they received a share of drink sales, which constituted an employment relationship, and were therefore entitled to a contract with employer-paid social security benefits.

The New York Times

Through extensive computational experiments on several instances derived from real data provided by the Madrid Metropolitan Railway, we show the advantages of designing a timetable adapted to the demand pattern, as opposed to a regular timetable.

Computers & Operations Research

Victoria shared a bedroom with her mother every night, studied with private tutors to a regular timetable, and spent her play-hours with her dolls and her King Charles spaniel, Dash.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

"We're optimistic, however, that we will regain use of part of this tunnel and will operate a more regular timetable than we have today," it said.

BBC

It has a problem in that the route is slow and not very direct; for years it was invisible, short of marketing and lacking a regular interval timetable.

Wikipedia

Stick to a regular study timetable.

WikiHow

The railway systems in various European countries adopt regular timetables, in which the trains arrive and depart at constant intervals.

Transportation Research Part B: Methodological

Regular timetables, in which the trains arrive and depart at constant intervals, have been adopted in various European countries, because of the simpler and fairer service they allow.

Electronic Notes in Discrete Mathematics

Under the quickest timetable, a regular season of 48 to 50 games could begin by Jan . 15

The New York Times - Sports

Our PHSE has been taken off the timetable in terms of having a regular weekly or two-weekly slot.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a regular timetable", ensure it's clear what the timetable governs, such as train departures, study sessions, or work shifts. Specify the subject for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a regular timetable" when referring to events that are intentionally variable or ad hoc. The phrase implies consistency, so use it accordingly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a regular timetable" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable. For example, "The train service operates on a regular timetable".

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a regular timetable" is a correct and commonly used noun phrase that refers to a consistent and predictable schedule. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its application across diverse contexts, including news, science, and general reference. While it’s grammatically straightforward, remember to use it when consistency is intended. Alternatives such as "a consistent schedule" or "a fixed schedule" can be used for variety. It is important to avoid using the phrase to describe intentionally variable events.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a consistent schedule

Focuses on the consistency of the schedule rather than the specific format of a timetable.

a fixed schedule

Emphasizes the immutability of the schedule, implying little to no flexibility.

a set timetable

Highlights the pre-determined nature of the timetable, focusing on its established form.

a standard timetable

Indicates a common or typical timetable, conforming to established norms.

a predictable schedule

Emphasizes the predictability of the schedule, making it easy to anticipate.

a recurring timetable

Focuses on the repetitive nature of the schedule, implying it happens regularly.

a systematic schedule

Highlights the organized and methodical nature of the timetable.

a structured schedule

Emphasizes the well-defined organization of the timetable.

an established timetable

Indicates the timetable is well-known and recognized.

a planned schedule

Highlights the purposeful design and arrangement of the timetable.

FAQs

How can I replace the phrase "a regular timetable" in my writing?

You can substitute it with phrases such as "a consistent schedule", "a fixed schedule", or "a set timetable", depending on the specific context and emphasis you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "a regular timetable" or "a consistent schedule"?

"A regular timetable" and "a consistent schedule" are generally interchangeable in terms of formality. The choice depends on the context and personal preference. "Timetable" might be slightly more common in certain formal settings like transportation or education.

When is it appropriate to use "a regular timetable"?

Use "a regular timetable" when you want to emphasize that something, such as a train service, a school's classes, or an individual's study plan, follows a predictable and consistent schedule.

How does "a regular timetable" differ from "a flexible schedule"?

"A regular timetable" implies a fixed and predictable arrangement, while "a flexible schedule" suggests adaptability and the ability to adjust the schedule as needed. They are essentially opposites in meaning.