a specific time

USAGE SUMMARY

'a specific time' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to refer to a particular point in time or a point in time determined by a schedule or timetable. For example, "We agreed to meet at a specific time later today."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was a specific time.

The New Yorker

Set aside a specific time.

Harvard Business Review

"We didn't plan a specific time period.

The New York Times

But "fall" for tree transplanters is a specific time period.

The New York Times

Is it a movie particular to a specific time?

The Guardian - Film

It's a classic projection of a specific time and place.

The Guardian - Film

Some jobs must start at a specific time.

The New York Times

Set a specific time and place to initiate the conversation.

Harvard Business Review

step C: Last pick a specific time period.

University of California, Berkeley

The commission is not required to finish its preliminary inquiries within a specific time period.

The New York Times

Ask a hundred people to be at a specific location at a specific time.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a specific time" to emphasize the importance of punctuality and adherence to schedules.

Common error

Avoid using vague expressions like "sometime soon" or "later" when "a specific time" is required. Providing concrete details enhances communication and prevents misunderstandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a specific time" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as an adverbial modifier, specifying when an action or event occurs. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

25%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a specific time" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that adds precision to communication by indicating a precise point in time. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is widely accepted and suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and everyday conversation. When writing, it's crucial to provide "a specific time" rather than vague alternatives to avoid ambiguity. Its frequent use in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its importance in clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A precise moment

Emphasizes exactness and pinpoint accuracy in time.

A particular hour

Highlights a certain hour within a day.

A defined timeframe

Implies a set duration with clear boundaries.

A designated period

Suggests a time allocated for a specific purpose.

A scheduled appointment

Focuses on an arranged meeting at a set time.

A chosen slot

Implies a selected space within a schedule.

An exact instant

Stresses a very short, precise moment.

A given date

Refers to a particular day.

A set deadline

Highlights a time by which something must be completed.

An appointed hour

Highlights a certain hour arranged with someone.

FAQs

How can I use "a specific time" in a sentence?

You can use "a specific time" to indicate a precise moment for an event, such as, "The meeting is scheduled for "a specific time" tomorrow."

What are some alternatives to saying "a specific time"?

Alternatives include "a precise moment", "a particular hour", or "a defined timeframe", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "at a specific time" or "on a specific time"?

The correct preposition is "at". Therefore, "at "a specific time"" is grammatically correct.

What does "a specific time" imply?

"A specific time" implies a precise point in time, often scheduled or pre-arranged. It signifies accuracy and the importance of being punctual or adhering to a schedule.