at shorter intervals

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at shorter intervals" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing frequency or timing, indicating that something occurs more frequently or with less time between occurrences. Example: "The train will run at shorter intervals during peak hours to accommodate the increased number of passengers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

"Companies now test at shorter intervals," he said.

The New York Times

That will also allow more time for the completion of a modernized signaling system that can dispatch more trains at shorter intervals from Secaucus through the tunnel into Manhattan.

The New York Times

Among others are whether pipeline operators should be required to install valves at shorter intervals; whether the valves must be capable of operation by remote control; and whether rules on corrosion control should be stricter.

The New York Times - Science

Durable paint coatings (with lifetimes of up to 40 years) can be applied to the metal in the factory; more conventional paints that must be renewed at shorter intervals are also used.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Guidelines recommend longer intervals between surveillance colonoscopies for low-risk patients, but physicians frequently perform surveillance colonoscopy at shorter intervals for these patients.

Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

In addition, surveys have shown that a large proportion of endoscopists are conducting surveillance examinations at shorter intervals than recommended in the guidelines.

Gastroenterology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

The sound of taut ropes lashing on concrete at short intervals is, to me, the sound of summer.

The New Yorker

It reads: "You are entitled to the higher rate because you need attention with bodily functions several times at short intervals right through the day".

The Guardian

Though they are coherent in conversation, both repeat themselves at short intervals, seemingly unaware of what they said moments earlier.

The New York Times

Further investigation might disclose that all the infected persons had dined at one time or at short intervals in a specific home.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But the battery had to be recharged and overhauled at short intervals, and the craft was never able to travel more than 80 miles without a battery recharge.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing schedules or routines, use "at shorter intervals" to clearly communicate an increased frequency of actions, such as "Check the oven temperature at shorter intervals to prevent burning".

Common error

Avoid using "at shorter intervals" when you mean a shorter total duration of an event. Instead, use it to describe how often events occur, not how long they last, to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at shorter intervals" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb. It indicates the frequency or timing of an action, specifying that it occurs more often or with less time in between occurrences. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

61%

News & Media

19%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at shorter intervals" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to indicate increased frequency or reduced time gaps between occurrences. Ludwig AI analysis shows it's most commonly found in scientific and news contexts, and it maintains a neutral to formal tone. Remember to use it to describe the frequency of events rather than their duration. Replace it with alternatives like "more frequently" or "more often" for simpler phrasing. Ludwig's examples showcase its practical applications in various fields, making it a valuable addition to your writing toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more frequently

This alternative uses a single adverb to indicate a higher frequency of occurrence.

at more frequent intervals

This option is a slightly more verbose but equally valid way of expressing the same idea.

with greater frequency

This phrase emphasizes the increased rate at which something happens.

more often

A simpler and more direct way to say something happens with less time in between.

at closer intervals

This alternative uses the term 'closer' to imply reduced spacing between occurrences.

in rapid succession

This phrase highlights that events are happening one after another quickly.

at briefer intervals

Using 'briefer' specifies the shortened length of the intervals.

more regularly

This option suggests increased consistency in the frequency of occurrence.

with reduced gaps

This alternative focuses on the smaller gaps between successive instances.

in quick repetition

This phrase emphasizes the recurring nature of something happening rapidly.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "at shorter intervals"?

Alternatives include "more frequently", "more often", or "at closer intervals", depending on the specific context.

What does "at shorter intervals" mean?

It means something is happening or being done with less time between each occurrence, indicating increased frequency.

Is it grammatically correct to use "at shorter intervals" in formal writing?

Yes, "at shorter intervals" is grammatically correct and suitable for formal writing, especially when precision about timing and frequency is needed.

How does the meaning of "at shorter intervals" differ from "at longer intervals"?

"At shorter intervals" implies more frequent occurrences, while "at longer intervals" suggests less frequent or spaced-out occurrences. The phrase "at longer intervals" is the direct opposite in meaning.