at a given point in time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a given point in time" is correct and usable in written English.
It's typically used to indicate a specific moment or instant, usually in the context of a timeline. For example, "We will need to make a decision at a given point in time."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

observed in the market at a given point in time.

Cornell University

Most other polls simply capture data at a given point in time.

The New York Times

Synchronic linguistics, the study of a language at a given point in time.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The level of uncertainty at a given point in time is therefore particularly difficult to assess.

Journal of Hydrology

This makes them a kind of fossil record of Americans' thoughts, values and dreams at a given point in time.

The Washington Post

Firstly, one can measure the difference in variables – such as child mortality rates – at a given point in time.

The Guardian

On the other hand, if there is certainty that shares would be distributed at a given point in time, it may decrease quantum.

Harvard University

In such a way that the projects that are developed are not able to be jettisoned at a given point in time.

Yale University

We had to carefully schedule each ADC readout from Port A as the MCU can only perform one conversion at a given point in time.

Cornell University

At a given point in time, the EBT coronary calcium scores are greatly superior to the Framingham risk factors in predicting the measured proximal stenosis burden.

The American Journal of Cardiology

The main input for the model are pH and alkalinity, and the output provides the entire carbon speciation at a given point in time.

Ecological Modelling

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at a given point in time" to specify a particular moment when describing a situation or process. This phrase is useful for adding clarity and precision to your writing, especially when discussing changes or developments.

Common error

Avoid using "at a given point in time" when a simpler alternative like "now" or "then" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex or formal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a given point in time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify when something occurs. As illustrated by Ludwig, it provides a temporal anchor, indicating a specific moment being referenced.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

32%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

11%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at a given point in time" is a common and grammatically sound way to refer to a specific moment. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use. Analysis of examples reveals that it is most frequently used in scientific, news, and academic contexts. While useful for precision, remember that simpler alternatives might be appropriate in less formal settings. The phrase's adverbial function helps to establish a clear temporal context, ensuring the reader understands the precise moment being discussed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at that precise moment

Highlights the exactness and often the importance of the time being referred to.

at a specific moment

Emphasizes the specificity of the moment being referred to, rather than implying a broader timeframe.

at a defined time

Points out how the timing is predetermined and specific.

at any given moment

Highlights the possibility of the action or state occurring at any unpredictable instance.

at a particular juncture

More formal and suggests a critical or significant moment in a sequence of events.

at a certain stage

Implies a progression or development, rather than a single isolated moment.

in a specific instance

Focuses on a single occurrence or event, often used to illustrate a general principle.

at this moment in history

Links the timing to significant historical happenings.

at the present time

Directly refers to the current era or situation.

in due course

Indicates that something will happen eventually, without specifying exactly when.

FAQs

How can I use "at a given point in time" in a sentence?

Use "at a given point in time" to specify a particular moment. For example, "The data reflects the market conditions "at a given point in time"."

What are some alternatives to "at a given point in time"?

Alternatives include "at a specific moment", "at any given moment", or "at a particular juncture" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it more appropriate to use "at a given point in time" or "at a specific time"?

"At a specific time" is generally more straightforward and suitable for everyday use. "At a given point in time" can add emphasis to the context or scenario being discussed, especially in scientific or analytical writing.

Can "at a given point in time" be used to describe trends over time?

No, "at a given point in time" refers to a single moment. To describe trends, use phrases like "over time", "across different periods", or "throughout the duration".