at tea time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at tea time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the specific time of day when tea is traditionally served, often in the late afternoon. Example: "We always gather at my grandmother's house at tea time for a delightful assortment of pastries and conversation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Travel

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Biscuits at tea time?

The Guardian

It couldn't be shown at tea time.

Independent

The next scene is in the couple's Dorset drawing room at tea time.

The New Yorker

The time is long past when women were relegated to discussing world events at tea time.

The New York Times

A shorter reading at tea time each day is $25, $15 for children.

The New York Times - Travel

We eat twice a day and snack at tea time, with leftovers and teas always available.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

That can go out at tea-time on a Sunday!

The Guardian - Opinion

Serve warm either at tea-time or as a dessert.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Little did anyone know that they would still be mooching about at tea-time.

The Guardian - Sport

But if I'd already eaten them for lunch, then you asked me at tea-time, I'd probably answer "crab salad".

The Guardian

"A bit like my own 'stood alone in a kitchen at tea-time (Scottish time) and 'overweightdrunkwaster'".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at tea time", consider your audience. The phrase is most common in British English and may need clarification for international readers. Ensure the context makes it clear you're referring to a late afternoon break, not necessarily a formal tea party.

Common error

Avoid using "at tea time" to refer to dinner or supper. The phrase specifically indicates a late afternoon break for tea and light snacks. Using it otherwise can confuse your readers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at tea time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by specifying when an action takes place. Ludwig AI examples show it frequently indicates the timing of events or activities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Lifestyle

8%

Travel

5%

Less common in

Sport

5%

Wiki

1%

Science & Research

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at tea time" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adverbial phrase, primarily in British English, to denote a late afternoon break for tea. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is common across various sources, especially News & Media. It's important to consider your audience when using this phrase, as it might require clarification for non-British readers. Alternative phrases like "in the late afternoon" or "during afternoon tea" can be used for broader understanding or to emphasize the event itself. Avoid using it to refer to other meals, as that is one of the most common mistakes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at teatime

A single-word variant of the phrase.

during afternoon tea

Focuses on the specific event of afternoon tea rather than just the time.

around tea time

Indicates an approximate time, offering less precision than the original phrase.

in the late afternoon

Specifies the time of day more generally, without the cultural association.

during the afternoon

Similar to "in the late afternoon", but covers a broader span of time.

at the hour for tea

More formal and specific, emphasizing the designated time.

when tea is served

Highlights the action of serving tea, rather than the specific time.

during a tea break

Highlights the break taken to drink tea.

over tea

Emphasizes the activity of drinking tea during that time.

in time for tea

Indicates arriving or being ready by the time tea is typically served.

FAQs

How can I use "at tea time" in a sentence?

You can use "at tea time" to indicate a specific time of day, typically in the late afternoon, when tea is traditionally served. For example, "We usually gather in the garden "at tea time" for a chat and some biscuits."

What is the origin of the phrase "at tea time"?

The phrase "at tea time" is rooted in British culture, where afternoon tea became a social custom in the 19th century. It refers to the time of day when people would typically take a break to enjoy tea and light refreshments.

Which is more common, "at tea time" or "during afternoon tea"?

"At tea time" is generally more common and informal, simply referring to the time of day. "During afternoon tea" is more specific, referencing the event itself. You can use alternatives like "during afternoon tea" to specify the event.

What can I say instead of "at tea time"?

You can use alternatives like "in the late afternoon", "around tea time", or "during the afternoon" depending on the context.