by a timetable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by a timetable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to actions or events that are scheduled or organized according to a specific timetable. Example: "The train will depart by a timetable that is strictly followed to ensure punctuality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Here is a fellow who has spent most of his life ruled by a timetable and traveling in straight lines.

The New York Times

It would be followed by a timetable of action that could be targeted to bring different sectors to a halt for up to a week.

The Guardian

These include an understanding that the map will be "performance-based" rather than driven by a timetable, with all the onus on the PA to act against the armed militias.

The Economist

President Bush has always insisted that the turnover and "drawdown" will be "conditions-based" — governed by the situation in Iraq and by the advice of commanders, not by a timetable set in Washington.

The New Yorker

First, by a timetable that seemed to have more to do with the president's travel plans – he's attending the G20 summit in St Petersburg next week – than a care for the needs of his allies.

The Guardian - Opinion

Not only did Mr. Sharon reject it but Palestinian Authority officials criticized it over the weekend and their top negotiator, Saeb Erekat, warned that such a step might only increase Palestinian frustration if not accompanied by a timetable for a state in the entire West Bank and Gaza Strip, which were occupied by Israel in the 1967 war.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

The Trump administration is pressing to open formal peace talks with insurgents in Afghanistan by April, a timetable driven by the president's mounting impatience with the stalemated 17-year-old war.

Los Angeles Times

He said an agreement on devolution would be agreed by November, with draft legislation by January – a timetable that leaves the issue unsettled until after the election.

The Guardian

Prime Minister Theresa May has declined to say exactly what she wants from the two-year negotiations she has said she'll trigger by March, a timetable that would put Britain outside the E.U. by the summer of 2019.

The Washington Post

In the days after Brahmi's assassination, Prime Minister Ali Larayedh announced the government's intent to push through the crisis by setting a timetable for completing the constitution and holding elections by the end of the year.

Huffington Post

Mr Santos has erred in the past by announcing a timetable that the FARC ignored.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by a timetable", ensure that the context clearly indicates the timetable's purpose and how it influences the described actions or events. Be specific about who or what is governed by the timetable.

Common error

Avoid using "by a timetable" when the emphasis should be on adaptability or flexibility. If the situation requires adjustments to the schedule, a phrase suggesting rigidity might be misleading.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by a timetable" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate how an action is carried out. It specifies that the action is performed in accordance with a predetermined schedule. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

21%

Science

14%

Less common in

Wiki

14%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by a timetable" is a grammatically sound phrase used to indicate that actions are performed according to a schedule. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While not the most frequent expression, it is commonly found in news, business, and scientific contexts. For alternatives, consider "according to a schedule" or "following a plan". When using "by a timetable", ensure clarity regarding the nature and purpose of the timetable, and avoid using it in contexts requiring flexibility. The phrase conveys organization and commitment to a predefined schedule, making it suitable for formal and professional communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

according to a schedule

This alternative is a more direct and commonly used way to indicate adherence to a set plan.

as per a schedule

This option maintains a similar level of formality but emphasizes adherence to the details within the schedule.

following a plan

This alternative focuses on the plan itself, rather than the structured nature of a timetable.

based on a schedule

This implies the actions are derived from a schedule.

guided by a schedule

This suggestion emphasizes that the actions are directed and governed by a previously set timetable.

in accordance with a schedule

This substitute provides a more formal and legalistic tone when referring to the execution of a schedule.

pursuant to a schedule

This alternative adds a formal, almost legalistic tone, implying official compliance.

in line with a schedule

This option suggests that the events are happening in harmony with or at the rate defined by the timetable.

according to a program

This option is a more formal reference to a detailed set of activities to be performed.

on a predetermined schedule

This choice highlights that the schedule has been established in advance.

FAQs

How can I use "by a timetable" in a sentence?

Use "by a timetable" to indicate that activities are conducted according to a set schedule. For example: "The project's phases were completed "by a timetable" established at the beginning of the year".

What's the difference between "by a timetable" and "according to a schedule"?

While similar, "by a timetable" emphasizes adherence to a formal, structured plan, whereas "according to a schedule" might imply a more flexible or adaptable arrangement. Use "according to a schedule" if the schedule is subject to change.

What are some alternatives to "by a timetable"?

Consider alternatives like "according to a schedule", "following a plan", or "as per a schedule" depending on the level of formality and the context of your writing.

Is it always necessary to specify the nature of the timetable when using "by a timetable"?

While not always necessary, specifying the nature of the timetable (e.g., "a strict timetable", "a flexible timetable") can enhance clarity and provide additional context to your writing.