buffer time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "buffer time" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used when referring to a period of time in which a person or organization can prepare for something that requires extra time and effort. For example, "We added some buffer time into the project timeline to make sure we had enough time to finish it to the highest standard."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

It was previously hard for OTT operators to notice service issues, but today there are a number of quality of service (QoS) technologies that constantly track buffer time for every user and the video quality of every stream.

The Guardian

This also builds in extra buffer time between One Medical appointments for physicians to deal with tasks like looking over test results or filling out forms.

The New York Times

Make sure that you start the whole process well in advance, and build in lots of buffer time in case it takes you longer than expected to get the GMAT score you want, or one of your recommenders disappears for a three week holiday and cannot be contacted, or you spend two months on an intensive project and have no time to come up for air.

The Economist

Extraction yield was related with four variables, including ratio of solution to solid, extraction power, buffer time, and extraction time.

Ultrasonics Sonochemistry

When there is no buffer time, the service punctuality can be significantly degraded due to increased capacity consumption.

Journal of Modern Transportation

Moreover, short sections with increased allowable speed may be ignored as long as there is sufficient buffer time left.

European Transport Research Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

Schedules may become robust and reliable, only if buffer times are embedded and designed properly in airline schedules.

Journal of Air Transport Management

This paper explores the inherent delays of airline schedules resulting from limited buffer times and stochastic disruptions in airline operations.

Journal of Air Transport Management

The research concluded that the buffer times are absolutely necessary for the service recovery, in case of operation interruption.

Journal of Modern Transportation

For that purpose, a timetable usually contains time supplements in several process times and buffer times between pairs of consecutive trains.

Transportation Research Part B: Methodological

In addition, none has designed flexible buffer times for static gate assignments to effectively absorb stochastic delays in real-time gate assignments.

Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When planning projects or schedules, proactively include "buffer time" to account for unexpected delays or complications. This demonstrates foresight and can improve project success.

Common error

Avoid the common mistake of assuming tasks will always be completed in the estimated minimum time. Accurately assess potential challenges and allocate sufficient "buffer time" to realistically account for them.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "buffer time" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as a compound noun. It describes a period allocated as a safety net against unforeseen delays or disruptions. As Ludwig AI suggests, it serves to prepare or account for extra effort.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "buffer time" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase referring to extra time allocated for unforeseen delays. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's useful in various contexts, including science, news, business, and even general planning. Given its frequency and clear purpose of mitigating risk, it's a valuable concept to incorporate into your vocabulary and project planning strategies. Including "buffer time" proactively when planning can improve success and reduce stress. Remember to assess and account for realistic potential challenges when using "buffer time".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spare time

Focuses on the availability of time, without necessarily implying it is reserved for unforeseen circumstances.

cushion time

Implies a softer, more forgiving allowance of time, highlighting flexibility.

safety margin

Emphasizes the protective aspect of the extra time, focusing on risk mitigation.

contingency period

Highlights that the time is reserved for potential unexpected events or needs.

allowance of time

A more formal and general way of referring to allotted time, without the implication of unexpected events.

reserve time

Highlights the act of keeping time aside for later use or unforeseen events.

extra time

A simpler way of stating that more time than necessary has been allocated.

leeway

Implies flexibility and tolerance for deviations from a schedule or plan.

room to maneuver

Suggests the availability of time to adjust or adapt to changing circumstances.

catch-up time

Focuses on the opportunity to recover from delays or setbacks.

FAQs

How to use "buffer time" in a sentence?

You can use "buffer time" to describe a period allocated for unexpected delays, for example: "We've built in some "buffer time" to ensure we meet the deadline, even if unforeseen issues arise."

What's a good substitute for "buffer time"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "spare time", "cushion time", or "safety margin".

Is it better to overestimate or underestimate "buffer time"?

It is generally better to overestimate the "buffer time" needed. While it might seem inefficient, having extra time is less stressful and allows for higher quality work than rushing to meet a deadline.

Why is "buffer time" important in project management?

"Buffer time" in project management helps mitigate the impact of unforeseen issues and delays, improving the likelihood of delivering the project on schedule and within budget.