as time unfolds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as time unfolds" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that happens gradually over time. For example: "As time unfolds, the complexities of the problem become increasingly apparent."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

"We're going to explore the gamut as time unfolds".

The New York Times

Still, he argued that the values embedded in the original design should be honored as time unfolds.

The New York Times - Arts

Instead, as time unfolds, a previously heterosexual daughter begins to date a woman, and a homosexual couple, "Bill and Bill," turn up next door.

The New York Times - Books

As for the average length of the contracts held, it plays a significant role in the decision to retire only as time unfolds.

SERIEs

These forms swirl and mix with each other, finding more combinations and complexities as time unfolds.

HuffPost

As time unfolds, it becomes increasingly clear - authority figures don't know everything.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

After repeated listens, it's clear how ingrained the theme of tribute is throughout: the talk of park jams, the samples of past emcees, the bit in "Represent" that begins, "Before the BDP conflict with MC Shan / around the time that Shanté dissed the Real Roxanne," as though time unfolds according to a New York hip-hop calendar.

The New Yorker

As Jessie's time unfolds, the shock comes from how very simple her life is, how unexceptional.

The New York Times

As the story of time unfolds, a fundamental truth is revealed: nothing lasts for ever.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The story this time unfolds as a series of increasingly dreary and teary melodramatic encounters regularly interrupted by special-effects-laden fights.

The New York Times

This is something to consider as the dialogue of our time unfolds, and the defining artifacts of our culture our shaped.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as time unfolds" to create a sense of anticipation or gradual revelation in your writing. It is effective for describing processes, changes, or narratives that develop over time.

Common error

Don't use "as time unfolds" when referring to very short periods; it implies a more gradual and extended process than phrases like "immediately" or "soon."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as time unfolds" functions as a temporal adverbial phrase, modifying a clause to indicate when or under what temporal conditions the action or state described in the clause occurs. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which deems the phrase grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as time unfolds" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to describe the gradual progression and revelation of events. According to Ludwig AI, the expression is correct. While not exceedingly common, it is found in diverse contexts ranging from news and media to scientific and academic writing. The phrase carries a neutral tone suitable for formal and informal communication. When seeking alternative expressions, consider options like "in the course of time" or "with the passage of time" to achieve a similar effect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the course of time

This alternative focuses on the progression of time as a container for events.

with the passage of time

This phrase emphasizes the movement of time and its effect on unfolding events.

as events transpire

This alternative highlights the occurrence of events as they unfold.

over a period of time

This phrase specifies a duration during which events unfold.

as things develop

This alternative focuses on the gradual evolution and progression of situations.

in due course

This emphasizes the eventual unfolding of events at an appropriate time.

as the future unfolds

Specifies that the unfolding is related to events yet to come.

down the line

This alternative is more informal, suggesting a point further in time.

eventually

Highlights the final outcome of a process taking place over time.

in the fullness of time

This emphasizes the completeness of events as they unfold over an extended period.

FAQs

How can I use "as time unfolds" in a sentence?

You can use "as time unfolds" to describe how events, situations, or understanding progress gradually over time. For instance, "As time unfolds, we gain a clearer picture of the situation".

What are some alternatives to "as time unfolds"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in the course of time", "with the passage of time", or "as events transpire", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "as time unfolds" or "as time passes"?

While both phrases refer to the progression of time, "as time unfolds" suggests a more deliberate and revealing process, whereas "as time passes" is a more general statement about the passage of time.

Can "as time unfolds" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "as time unfolds" is appropriate for formal writing. It appears in reputable sources like The New York Times and academic publications, indicating its acceptability in professional and academic contexts.