at reasonable time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at reasonable time" is not correct in standard written English.
The correct expression is "at a reasonable time." Example: "Please respond to my request at a reasonable time so we can proceed with the project."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

If it turns out you get to your friend's place and it's just you with a few other people, enjoy it and accept the idea that you're prepared to end your night at reasonable time.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

We don't think it is too much to ask for departures at reasonable times if you are going to Paris for just one night – or to be able to go over a weekend.

The Guardian - Money

SItn up for the best of VICE, delivered to your inbox daily.

Vice

He sheds tears at reasonable times (like, you know, someone's death).

Vice

Combine that with the fact that teenagers need more sleep than adults, and an early alarm means that even teens who go to bed at reasonable times can't possibly get healthy sleep.

Huffington Post

The Aspen Times reports Marilyn Marks, the mayoral candidate who filed the suit, rested the case partially on the Colorado Open Records Act, which states, "all public records shall be open for inspection by any person at reasonable times, except as provided... by law".

Huffington Post

The Investigator(s)/institution(s) will permit study-related monitoring, audits, HREC review, and direct access to case record forms, source documents and study files at all study sites for monitoring and audit purposes, at reasonable times, during the course of the study and after completion.

BMC Pediatrics

Now I get my marking done at school and go home at a reasonable time without the book trolley.

The Guardian

I clock off at a reasonable time because work-life balance is important to me.

The Guardian

I try to get away at a reasonable time – I'm a working father, after all.

The Guardian

Owls know they ought to go to bed at a reasonable time, but they can't — they're owls.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always use the article "a" before "reasonable time" to ensure grammatical correctness: "at a reasonable time".

Common error

Ensure you include the article "a" when using the phrase "reasonable time" to maintain grammatical accuracy. For example, instead of writing "arrive at reasonable time", write "arrive at a reasonable time".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at reasonable time" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, but it is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "at a reasonable time". As noted by Ludwig AI, the omission of the article "a" violates standard English grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "at reasonable time" appears in various sources, it's crucial to recognize that it's grammatically incorrect. The proper form is "at a reasonable time". As Ludwig AI highlights, omitting the article "a" is a common error to avoid. When aiming for clarity and grammatical accuracy, always include the article "a" to ensure your writing aligns with standard English conventions. Alternative phrases such as "in a timely manner" or "at a convenient time" can also be considered, depending on the specific context. Remember that correct grammar enhances your credibility and ensures your message is well-received.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a suitable time

Replaces "reasonable" with "suitable", indicating appropriateness for the circumstances.

at a convenient time

Substitutes "reasonable" with "convenient", focusing on ease and lack of difficulty.

at an appropriate time

Uses "appropriate" instead of "reasonable", suggesting that the timing is fitting or correct for a specific purpose.

at an acceptable time

Replaces "reasonable" with "acceptable", implying that the timing meets a certain standard or requirement.

at a proper time

Substitutes "reasonable" with "proper", focusing on correctness and adherence to standards.

at a fitting time

Uses "fitting" instead of "reasonable", suggesting that the timing is well-matched to the circumstances.

at a good time

Replaces "reasonable" with "good", offering a simpler and more general alternative.

at a fair time

Substitutes "reasonable" with "fair", emphasizing impartiality and justice.

within a reasonable timeframe

Emphasizes the duration rather than a specific point in time, adding the concept of a period.

in a timely manner

Focuses on promptness and efficiency, suggesting that something is done without delay.

FAQs

What is the correct way to say "at reasonable time"?

The correct way to say "at reasonable time" is "at "at a reasonable time"". The inclusion of the article 'a' is necessary for grammatical correctness.

What does "at a reasonable time" mean?

The phrase "at "at a reasonable time"" means doing something at a point in time that is fair, appropriate, or suitable under the circumstances. It implies consideration for others' schedules and convenience.

Can I use "at reasonable times" instead of "at a reasonable time"?

Yes, "at reasonable times" is a grammatically correct alternative, especially when referring to multiple instances or occasions. However, if you are referring to a single, unspecified instance, "at "at a reasonable time"" is more appropriate.

What are some alternatives to "at a reasonable time"?

Some alternatives to "at "at a reasonable time"" include "in a timely manner", "at "at a convenient time"", or "at "at an appropriate time"", depending on the specific context and desired emphasis.