according to a schedule

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "according to a schedule" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to actions or events that are planned or organized based on a specific timetable. Example: "The train will depart according to a schedule, so please arrive at the station on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

State Department officials conceded that a carefully orchestrated timetable for Israeli and Palestinian concessions, proceeding according to a schedule Mr. Powell negotiated when he visited Israel a week ago, was thrown into chaos by the bombing attacks.

The New York Times

They also filled out questionnaires and diaries according to a schedule.

The New Yorker

Property managers generally inspect tenant spaces according to a schedule -- either monthly or biweekly.

The New York Times

Mr. Verniero will have his own day for testimony, according to a schedule released yesterday.

The New York Times

A backup can be initiated either manually, by pressing a button, or automatically, according to a schedule.

The New York Times - Tech

(A spokesman for the park said interpreters do demonstrations daily according to a schedule posted in the visitors' center).

The New York Times

A prayer will be offered at 10 30 a.m., according to a schedule of memorial events issued by his office.

The New York Times

Each player now has a five-card poker hand, which is paid off according to a schedule.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Sitting down to methodically map out tasks according to a schedule allows you to maintain focus, which in turn reduces stress.

The Guardian

But the government limits what it will pay retirees in such cases, according to a schedule based on each person's age and stipend.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

NFL regular season matchups are determined according to a scheduling formula.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "according to a schedule", ensure the schedule is clearly defined or easily accessible to your audience. This avoids ambiguity and ensures everyone understands the intended timeline or sequence of events.

Common error

Avoid using "according to a schedule" without specifying what that schedule is. For example, instead of saying "Tasks will be completed according to a schedule", say "Tasks will be completed according to the schedule outlined in Appendix A".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "according to a schedule" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun, indicating that an action or event is performed or occurs in compliance with a pre-determined plan. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "according to a schedule" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate adherence to a pre-defined timetable or sequence of events. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct, commonly employed in various contexts such as News & Media and Science, and suitable for neutral to formal registers. Best practice involves clearly defining the referred schedule, while common errors include vague references. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness of the phrase and offers alternatives like "as per the timetable" or "in line with the itinerary". The frequency of the expression is considered very common, with authoritative sources like The New York Times and The New Yorker frequently using it.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as per the timetable

Replaces "schedule" with "timetable", offering a slightly more formal tone.

in accordance with the program

Substitutes "schedule" with "program", suggesting a structured sequence of activities.

following the prescribed plan

Emphasizes adherence to a plan that has been officially set.

pursuant to the agenda

Uses legalistic language, implying formal compliance with an agenda.

as planned

Shortens the phrase while retaining the essence of following a schedule.

on a prearranged timeline

Highlights the aspect of the schedule being arranged in advance.

in line with the itinerary

Replaces "schedule" with "itinerary", often used for travel plans.

based on the established timeframe

Focuses on the temporal aspect of the schedule.

guided by the set order

Emphasizes the sequence and arrangement of elements in the schedule.

observing the stipulated hours

Implies a strict adherence to time-based rules within the schedule.

FAQs

How can I use "according to a schedule" in a sentence?

You can use "according to a schedule" to indicate that actions or events are planned and will occur at specific times. For example, "The deliveries will be made "according to a schedule" posted on the website".

What are some alternatives to saying "according to a schedule"?

You can use alternatives like "as per the timetable", "in line with the itinerary", or "as planned" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "according to a schedule" or "on schedule"?

"According to a schedule" specifies adherence to a pre-defined plan, while "on schedule" indicates that progress is aligned with the expected timeline. They have different meanings, so the better choice depends on the intended message.

What's the difference between "according to a schedule" and "scheduled for"?

"According to a schedule" emphasizes that something is happening in compliance with an existing plan, while "scheduled for" simply indicates that an event is planned for a specific time. For example, "The meeting will proceed "according to a schedule"", versus "The meeting is "scheduled for" 2 PM".