a time flying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a time flying" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to express the idea of time passing quickly, but it is not a standard expression. Example: "As I sat at my desk, I realized that a time flying was not something I could ignore; the deadline was approaching fast."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Moments later, his tower was struck, and "I went down three steps at a time, flying," he said.

The New York Times

They come out a few at a time, flying at the heads of the men standing a few feet from the coop.

The New York Times

This will allow it to stay airborne for months at a time, flying high above clouds and commercial planes, powered by the sun.

The New Yorker

Once upon a time, flying was fun, occasionally luxurious, even romantic.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

As in downhill skiing, one plane at a time flies from Linden Airport, six miles away, and takes the course, darting and slicing, often sideways and virtually skimming the water, through large pylons set on eight barges.

The New York Times - Sports

That the government adds people to kill lists after a bureaucratic process and leaves them on the lists for months at a time flies in the face of the Constitution and international law".

The Guardian - Opinion

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday that Israeli aircraft had "a tough time flying near Gaza because there are antiaircraft missiles there".

The New York Times

They would fight for landing slots and have a hard time flying from one European city to another.

Forbes

They spend a lot of time flying, but even more time driving.

The New Yorker

UNLIKE fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters tend to spend a lot of time flying close to the ground, especially during military and emergency missions.

The Economist

Says he: "You spend a lot of time flying around to factories and construction sites.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using the phrase "a time flying" in formal or informal writing. Instead, opt for established idioms like "time flies" or more descriptive alternatives depending on your intended meaning.

Common error

A common mistake is to incorrectly combine elements from different time-related idioms or phrases. Instead of creating a non-standard phrase like "a time flying", use established expressions such as "time flies" or rephrase the sentence for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a time flying" does not have a clear grammatical function due to its incorrect structure. It seems to attempt to combine the concept of time with the action of flying, but it does not form a coherent or standard English phrase. Ludwig AI indicates that it is not a standard expression.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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News & Media

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a time flying" is grammatically incorrect and not recognized as a standard English expression. As Ludwig AI points out, it does not convey a clear meaning and should be avoided. More appropriate alternatives include the idiom "time flies" or other phrases that accurately describe the intended meaning related to the passage of time or the experience of flying. Pay close attention to standard grammar and usage to ensure clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

time flies

Standard idiom for the rapid passage of time, lacking the literal flight aspect.

flying high

Focuses on the exhilarating feeling of success or happiness, metaphorically related to flight.

a period of rapid advancement

Describes a time of quick progress, abstracting the "flying" aspect to rapid development.

spending time in the air

Literally refers to being airborne, without implying anything about the passage of time.

a fleeting moment

Emphasizes the brevity of a particular instant, related to the speed implied in "flying".

experiencing a swift transition

Focuses on a fast change, similar to the swiftness suggested by "flying".

going through a quick phase

Highlights the rapidity of a stage or period, abstracting from the literal sense of flight.

a rapid succession of events

Describes a series of events occurring quickly, drawing on the speed aspect.

soaring through life

Metaphorically uses soaring to represent a positive and fast-paced journey through life.

moments passing swiftly

Underscores the quick movement of moments, linking to the speed implied in "flying".

FAQs

What does "time flies" mean?

The idiom "time flies" means that time passes quickly. It's often used when you're enjoying yourself or when you realize a significant amount of time has passed without you noticing.

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

You can use "time flies" in a sentence like this: "I can't believe it's already been five years since we graduated; time flies!"

What are some alternatives to saying "time flies"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "time passes quickly", "time goes by fast", or "the years slip away" as alternatives to "time flies".

Is "a time flying" grammatically correct?

No, "a time flying" is not grammatically correct in standard English. A more appropriate idiom to convey a similar meaning would be "time flies".