catching time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "catching time" is not a standard expression in written English and may not convey a clear meaning without context.
It could be used in contexts where one is trying to make the most of their time or to seize an opportunity, but it is not commonly recognized. Example: "I need to start catching time if I want to finish this project before the deadline."

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

A prison is a trap for catching time.

The New Yorker

More than eleven hundred pages long, this epic novel… A prison is a trap for catching time.

The New Yorker

INSIDE PITCH In the Mets' strongest hint yet that the experiment of playing Mike Piazza often at first base might be over, Manager Art Howe said, "I've talked to Mike about increasing his catching time".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

He cut through the field from some way off the pace to cross the line in an eye-catching time for a maiden and, at the prices on offer, he has to be the bet at around 11-2.

The Guardian - Sport

Then, at the final test, Rosberg's eye-catching time on Friday - described by Vettel as "very, very strong" - was followed by Hamilton on Saturday lapping 0.24 seconds quicker than Massa and Raikkonen when they were on tyres between 0.5-0.8 0.5-0.8 faseconds

BBC

"The best medicine for me was to get back in the car," Jimmy, 27, said in a recent interview, his voice catching from time to time.

The New York Times

The app has only a few, very clear controls to make eye-catching time-lapse videos.

The New York Times - Tech

Red Bull did not set any eye-catching times in pre-season testing but their lead driver Max Verstappen, who won two races last year and should have had a third, said he feels "optimistic" about the season ahead.

BBC

Posada has struggled in his transition from catching full time to, as he put it Thursday, pinch-hitting four times every game as the designated hitter.

The New York Times - Sports

As Russian border agents using dogs have become more adept at catching small-time traffickers, smugglers have been compelled to risk large shipments, he said.

The New York Times

Wavelet analysis does well at catching short-time transient or local change signals [12].

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using more common alternatives like "making the most of time" or "seizing the moment" for clarity, as "catching time" may not be universally understood.

Common error

Avoid using "catching time" in formal contexts where literal interpretations are preferred. Opt for more direct and easily understood phrasing to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "catching time" functions metaphorically, typically used to express the idea of making the most of available time or seizing an opportunity. Ludwig's analysis notes that while grammatically sound, it's not a standard expression.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "catching time" is a grammatically acceptable but uncommon expression often used metaphorically to mean making the most of available time or seizing an opportunity. Ludwig's analysis indicates that it's not a standard idiom and may not be universally understood. While sources like The New York Times and The Guardian use it, alternatives such as "making the most of time" or "seizing the moment" might offer more clarity. Therefore, consider the context and audience when using "catching time", opting for clearer alternatives in more formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

making up for lost time

Implies compensating for time lost due to delays or setbacks.

making the most of time

Emphasizes efficient and productive use of available time.

seizing the moment

Highlights taking immediate advantage of an opportunity.

taking advantage of time

Emphasizes utilizing time effectively for specific purposes.

capitalizing on time

Focuses on leveraging time to gain maximum benefit.

harnessing time effectively

Highlights controlling and directing time for desired outcomes.

reclaiming lost time

Suggests recovering time that was previously unavailable or wasted.

snatching moments

Implies finding and utilizing small portions of time.

getting ahead of schedule

Focuses on accelerating progress and finishing tasks early.

optimizing time usage

Highlights improving the efficiency of how time is spent.

FAQs

What does "catching time" mean?

The phrase "catching time" is not a standard expression, but it could imply making the most of available time or seizing an opportunity. Alternative phrases like "making the most of time" or "seizing the moment" might be clearer.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "catching time"?

It might be appropriate in creative writing or informal contexts where a unique expression is desired. However, in professional or academic writing, it's better to use more conventional phrases for clarity, such as "making up for lost time".

What are some alternatives to "catching time" in a business context?

In a business setting, consider using phrases like "optimizing time usage" or "harnessing time effectively" to convey efficient use of time resources. These alternatives are more readily understood and professionally appropriate.

Is "catching time" grammatically incorrect?

While not grammatically incorrect, "catching time" is not a widely recognized idiom. It's more of a metaphorical expression. Using more common phrases will ensure clearer communication.