by what time

USAGE SUMMARY

"by what time" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is often used to inquire about a specific time frame or deadline. Here are some examples: - Can you please let me know by what time the report needs to be submitted? - We need to finish this project by what time? - By what time do you think the package will arrive? - I am supposed to meet my friend at the airport, but I'm not sure by what time her flight lands. - By what time do you need me to pick you up tomorrow?.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Researchers have demonstrated that parole decisions by an Israeli panel were largely determined by what time the hearings were held.

The New York Times

"And if that doesn't work, then we'll see under what conditions and by what time frame we'll do the alternative actions".

The New York Times

In what may be the first deal of its kind, ABC is bringing back the comedy "Dharma and Greg" for one season -- or maybe two -- at a price to be determined by what time period it is put on the air.

The New York Times - Arts

The method is strictly determined by where they live; by relevant waiting lists and lotteries; by what time they arrive at the frequently oversold permit-only parking areas; and by the extent of the rush hour traffic chaos at the station.

The New York Times

If you are arranging transport, also advise guests where they need to meet and by what time in order to be collected and taken to the campfire.

WikiHow

These goals can include what you expect to have written by when, which parts of your research must be done by what time, how many chapters are completed, and so forth.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Recent play lists included "Umbrella" by Rihanna, "What Time Is It," from "High School Musical 2" and "The Sweet Escape" by Gwen Stefani.

The New York Times

"Sorry," I said to a Metro-North conductor the other day, when I disrupted the swift completion of his progression through the train by asking what time we would get to my stop.

The New York Times

At first, Finnegan — wearing an immaculate Army uniform, his chest covered in ribbons and medals — aroused confusion: he was taken for an actor and was asked by someone what time his "call" was.

The New Yorker

Self-reported time in bed, awakening time and bedtime were assessed for each adolescent by asking, "What time did you usually go to bed and wake-up last week?" The responses for awakening time were categorised as ≤5:00, 6 00, 7 00, 8 00 and ≥9 00 and the responses for bedtime were categorised as ≤21 00, 22 00, 23:00, 24:00, 1 00 and ≥2 00; numbers represent the military time of day.

BMJ Open

Start by knowing what time and day he's coming over precisely.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by what time" in formal writing, ensure that the context clearly indicates a specific deadline or timeframe. Avoid ambiguity by providing precise times and dates.

Common error

Avoid using "by what time" when a general timeframe is sufficient. This phrase implies a need for a precise deadline, so ensure the context warrants that level of specificity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by what time" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a question regarding a specific deadline or timeframe. It is used to inquire about the latest acceptable moment for something to be completed or to occur. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Wiki

43%

Science

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by what time" is a grammatically correct and commonly used prepositional phrase to inquire about a specific deadline or timeframe. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is accurate and practical for specifying time-related expectations. While considered neutral to slightly formal, it fits well in professional contexts requiring precise time coordination. Alternatives like "by when" or "what is the deadline" can be used for brevity or increased directness. When using this phrase, ensure the context calls for a precise deadline rather than a general timeframe. Considering the available sources, its usage spans across news, wiki content, and scientific documentation, making it a versatile phrase for various communication needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by when

This alternative is a more concise and common way to ask for a deadline.

when is it due

This alternative is a common and straightforward way to ask about the due date.

what is the deadline

This alternative is more direct and explicit in asking for the final submission date.

what is the latest time

This alternative clearly indicates the need for the absolute latest acceptable time.

when must it be finished

This alternative emphasizes the completion aspect of the task.

until what time

This alternative specifies the upper limit or duration up to which something is allowed.

what's the cutoff time

This alternative is slightly more informal and emphasizes the final permissible moment.

what time is the final moment

This alternative is a more elaborate way to specify the last possible moment.

at what hour

This alternative is more formal and precise, specifying a particular hour.

by what hour

This alternative sounds slightly archaic but still conveys the need for a specific hourly deadline.

FAQs

How do I use "by what time" in a sentence?

Use "by what time" to inquire about a specific deadline or timeframe. For example, "By what time do you need the report?" or "Can you tell me by what time the delivery will arrive?"

What can I say instead of "by what time"?

You can use alternatives like "by when", "what is the deadline", or "when is it due" depending on the context.

Is "by what time" formal or informal?

"By what time" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. In very informal contexts, you might prefer a simpler phrasing like "when" or "what time".

What's the difference between "by what time" and "what time"?

"By what time" emphasizes the deadline or the latest acceptable time, while "what time" is a more general inquiry about the time of an event. For example, "By what time do you need it?" focuses on the deadline, whereas "what time is the meeting?" asks for the scheduled time.