bought some time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bought some time" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that someone has delayed a situation or decision, allowing for more time to address an issue or problem. Example: "By negotiating a temporary agreement, the team bought some time to finalize the project details."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

With them, she has bought some time.

The Economist

"Google bought some time," he said.

The New York Times

"I had just bought some time.

The New York Times - Sports

"The governors have bought some time.

The New York Times

The firefighters may have bought some time for the architects.

The New York Times

"You bought some time, and maybe this will put you over the hump.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

"It buys some time.

The New York Times

That appeared to buy some time.

The Economist

That should buy some time.

The Guardian

That would buy some time, anyway.

The New Yorker

For Mr Cowen, a referendum success may buy some time.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bought some time" when you want to emphasize that an action created a temporary respite or opportunity to address an underlying problem. For example, "The agreement bought some time for negotiations to continue."

Common error

Avoid using "bought some time" as a permanent solution. This phrase inherently suggests a temporary delay, not a final resolution. If you seek to indicate a long-term solution, consider other expressions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bought some time" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as part of a larger clause. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase suggests that an action or event has created a temporary delay or postponement, giving someone more time to prepare or act.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "bought some time" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe delaying a situation to allow for further action. Ludwig AI’s analysis, along with numerous examples from reputable sources, confirms that it's suitable for a neutral register and commonly used in news and media. Remember that the phrase implies a temporary delay, so be cautious when using it to describe a permanent solution. Consider alternatives like "gained a reprieve" or "stalled for time" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Stalled for time

Suggests a deliberate act of delaying, often to deceive or gain an advantage.

Gained a reprieve

Implies a temporary suspension of a negative situation, similar to delaying an inevitable outcome.

Bought oneself an extension

This phrase emphasizes the personal benefit of delaying a deadline or obligation.

Secured a delay

Focuses on the act of obtaining a postponement, emphasizing the effort involved.

Deferred the decision

Highlights the act of postponing a choice or judgment.

Postponed the inevitable

Highlights the act of delaying something that is bound to happen, often with negative connotations.

Procured additional breathing room

Implies that by delaying, a situation is made less stressful or restrictive.

Procrastinated action

Emphasizes the act of delaying or postponing a task or decision.

Created a window of opportunity

Focuses on delaying immediate action to allow for future prospects or advantages.

Extended the deadline

Specifically refers to delaying the final date for completion or submission.

FAQs

How can I use "bought some time" in a sentence?

You can use "bought some time" to indicate that someone has delayed a situation or decision to allow more time to address an issue. For example, "The negotiation "bought some time" for both parties to consider their options."

What's a similar phrase to "bought some time"?

Similar phrases include "gained a reprieve", "secured a delay", or "stalled for time". Each carries a slightly different nuance but conveys the general idea of postponing something.

Is it correct to say "buy some time" instead of "bought some time"?

Yes, "buy some time" is the infinitive form, used to express the intention to delay. "Bought some time" is the past tense, indicating that the action of delaying has already occurred.

What is the difference between ""bought some time"" and "gained an advantage"?

"Bought some time" suggests a delay to create opportunity, whereas "gained an advantage" implies directly benefiting in a situation. Delaying may lead to an advantage, but it is not the same thing.