at different points in time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at different points in time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to various moments or stages in the past, present, or future when discussing events or changes. Example: "The project evolved significantly at different points in time, reflecting the changing needs of the stakeholders."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I can tell you with confidence that survivors talk about their experience very differently at different points in time.

Huffington Post

This represents the difference between the groups at different points in time.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

Table  1 presents means and standard deviations at different points in time, including the cross-sectional analysis of gender differences.

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

Then more specific, I think my music will express different things at different points in time.

Cornell University

As the music plays in Jplayer, there are triggers at different points in time.

The Guardian

Governments use different combinations of evidence at different points in time of the same policy process.

Nature

Each treatment sequence produced significant sleep improvements, but at different points in time.

Behaviour Research and Therapy

In a cross-over experiment the same subject is tested at different points in time.

Computational Statistics & Data Analysis

Intertemporal choices – decisions involving trade-offs of outcomes at different points in time – are often made under stress.

Psychoneuroendocrinology

The Wayback Machine "gives us access to what people were producing at different points in time," he says.

The Economist

The Web site usgovernmentspending.com has an abundance of data on federal, state and local spending at different points in time.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at different points in time" to clearly indicate that conditions, actions, or observations vary depending on the specific moment being referenced.

Common error

While correct, overusing "at different points in time" can make your writing sound repetitive. Consider using synonyms like "variously", "at times", or restructuring the sentence for better flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at different points in time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify when an action or state occurs. It indicates that something happens or is true at some times but not others. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and very common.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

55%

News & Media

32%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at different points in time" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adverbial phrase that adds temporal context to sentences. It indicates that something varies or changes depending on the specific moment. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely accepted. While correct and versatile, it's important to use it judiciously and consider synonyms to avoid repetitiveness. It commonly appears in scientific, news, and business contexts, demonstrating its broad applicability and neutral register. By understanding its function and purpose, writers can effectively use "at different points in time" to enhance clarity and precision in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at varying moments

Similar to "at different points in time" but uses "moments" to indicate brief periods.

at separate times

Focuses on the distinctness and non-overlapping nature of the times.

at different stages

Highlights progression or development through a series of phases.

at various junctures

Emphasizes specific moments or stages rather than a continuous period.

on different occasions

Highlights distinct events or circumstances occurring at separate times.

at several instances

Implies multiple occurrences, emphasizing the repetition of an event.

at changing intervals

Focuses on the altering durations between events or observations.

over a period

Highlights the duration and continuous nature of time rather than specific moments.

at alternating periods

Emphasizes a pattern of events happening in sequence with time in between.

in due course

Suggests events unfolding naturally or according to a predetermined schedule.

FAQs

How can I use "at different points in time" in a sentence?

You can use "at different points in time" to describe how something changes or varies depending on the specific moment being considered. For example: "The project requirements evolved "at different points in time" due to stakeholder feedback."

What are some alternatives to "at different points in time"?

Some alternatives to "at different points in time" include phrases like "at various times", "at different stages", or "at separate times" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "at different points in time" or "during different times"?

Both "at different points in time" and "during different times" are grammatically correct, but "at different points in time" often implies a more specific and discrete moment, while "during different times" suggests a broader period. The better choice depends on the context.

What is the difference between "at different points in time" and "over time"?

"At different points in time" refers to specific, distinct moments, while "over time" ("over time") implies a gradual change or development across a longer duration.