at this hour

USAGE SUMMARY

"at this hour" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a certain time in the present or immediate past. For example: "We're still working hard at this hour."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"At this hour?

Independent

The supermarket was bustling at this hour.

The New Yorker

Who would depart at this hour?

The Economist

"At this hour?" He nodded.

The New Yorker

Thou shouldst be living at this hour.

The Guardian - Books

Few people were about at this hour.

The New Yorker

I looked appalled — candy at this hour?

The New Yorker

What does he want at this hour?

The Guardian - Sport

Coleridge! thou shouldst be living at this hour:.

The New Yorker

At this hour all the local stores were closed.

The New Yorker

"He's in this at this hour," seconded Fox's Brit Hume.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at this hour," consider the context to ensure it aligns with the tone and register of your writing. It can sound slightly formal or literary.

Common error

Avoid using "at this hour" in very casual conversations or writing, as it can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for more natural alternatives like "now" or "currently".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at this hour" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify the time of an action or state. Ludwig AI indicates the expression is considered correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

92%

Academia

3%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"At this hour" is a versatile phrase used to pinpoint a specific moment in time, often imbued with a sense of surprise or emphasis. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, it carries a neutral to slightly formal tone. While alternatives like "at this time" and "currently" exist, "at this hour" uniquely highlights the immediate and perhaps unexpected nature of the timing. When using it, consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing to ensure it resonates effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at this time

This alternative is more general and can refer to any point in time, not necessarily the present.

at the present time

This alternative is a more formal way of saying "at this time".

at the moment

This phrase emphasizes the immediate present, similar to "at this hour" but with a stronger sense of immediacy.

currently

This alternative is a single word that conveys the same meaning of 'happening now'.

right now

This phrase is more direct and informal, emphasizing the present moment.

in this period

This alternative refers to a broader span of time, not just the present hour.

in the present day

This phrase refers to a more extended timeframe than the immediate hour.

as we speak

This alternative emphasizes that something is happening while the speaker is talking.

at this stage

This phrase refers to a point in a process or development, not necessarily a specific time.

in current times

This refers to the general era or period, rather than the precise hour.

FAQs

How can I use "at this hour" in a sentence?

You can use "at this hour" to refer to the current time, often implying surprise or deviation from the norm, such as "What are you doing "at this time" of night?"

What are some alternatives to "at this hour"?

Alternatives include "at the moment", "currently", or "right now", depending on the context.

Is "at this hour" formal or informal?

"At this hour" leans towards the formal side. In very casual settings, consider using more relaxed alternatives.

When is it appropriate to use "at this hour" in writing?

Use "at this hour" when you want to add a touch of formality or emphasize the specific timing, especially in news reports, narratives, or situations where the timing is unexpected or significant. Consider the nuance of similar phrases like "at this stage" to make sure it reflects your intentions.