at an appropriate time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at an appropriate time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a moment that is suitable or fitting for a particular action or event. Example: "We will discuss the project details at an appropriate time during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He said they would clear away barricades from a second protest site at Causeway Bay "at an appropriate time".

BBC

So perhaps these emails are arriving at an appropriate time.

The Guardian

"Those issues will be dealt with at an appropriate time.

The Guardian - Music

Late seating will occur at an appropriate time.

Cornell University

"If other things are being pursued, they will be announced at an appropriate time," he said.

The New York Times

We will make an announcement about our embassy at an appropriate time".

The Guardian

"We will immediately investigate the charges and speak to them at an appropriate time," he said.

The New York Times

Cardoza added a further announcement would be made "at an appropriate time in the future".

The Guardian - Sport

"I am listening, looking, and we'll decide at an appropriate time.

The Telegraph

"So some time ago I said to them, at an appropriate time, I would like to speak out on this".

The New York Times

That, she said, will be done at an "appropriate time," presumably sometime after the official 40-day period of mourning.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at an appropriate time" to indicate that an action should be delayed until the circumstances are favorable or the timing is most effective. This avoids premature or poorly timed actions.

Common error

While "at an appropriate time" can be useful, be mindful of overusing it without providing any indication of when that time might be. This can lead to uncertainty and frustration. Strive for a balance between discretion and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at an appropriate time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify when an action will occur. Ludwig's examples showcase its common use in indicating a delay until suitable conditions are met.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at an appropriate time" functions as an adverbial phrase used to indicate that something will occur when the circumstances are right. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct, very common in usage, and applicable across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and general writing. It serves to defer action or discussion, signaling awareness while postponing resolution for strategic or undisclosed reasons. While useful, avoid overuse without indication of timing to prevent vagueness. Consider alternatives like "at a suitable moment" or "in due course" for variety. The Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a suitable moment

Emphasizes the fitting or convenient aspect of the timing.

at the right time

Highlights the correctness or ideal nature of the timing.

when the time is right

Focuses on the condition of the timing being optimal.

in due course

Suggests that something will happen eventually when the circumstances are suitable.

when the moment is opportune

Stresses the advantageous or favorable quality of the timing.

at a convenient juncture

Highlights the ease and facility of the timing.

at a fitting occasion

Emphasizes the relevance and suitability of the timing.

at the proper juncture

Focuses on the correctness and appropriateness of the timing.

when circumstances permit

Indicates that the timing depends on external conditions being favorable.

when conditions allow

Similar to 'when circumstances permit', emphasizing the necessary external conditions.

FAQs

How can I use "at an appropriate time" in a sentence?

You can use "at an appropriate time" to indicate that something will happen when the circumstances are right, such as, "We will release the information "at an appropriate time"" or "The issue will be addressed "at an appropriate time"."

What are some alternatives to "at an appropriate time"?

Alternatives include phrases like "at a suitable moment", "at the right time", or "in due course", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to be specific about timing rather than saying "at an appropriate time"?

While "at an appropriate time" is acceptable, being more specific about timing is often preferable for clarity. However, there are instances where discretion is necessary, making "at an appropriate time" a useful placeholder.

What does it mean when someone says something will be addressed "at an appropriate time"?

It generally means the person acknowledges the issue but isn't ready or able to address it immediately. The timing depends on factors they may not be willing or able to disclose.