check the time

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence 'check the time' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to remind someone to look at the clock or watch to see what time it is. Example: "When you're finished with the report, check the time so we know how long it took."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

It was then that he thought to check the time.

The New Yorker

To what and how often does the master clock system connect to check the time?

The New York Times

Intermittently I would turn on the light to check the time.

The New York Times

I was rigid, with an arm outstretched horizontally I couldn't check the time.

The Guardian - Sport

Outside, it was getting dark, and Li took out her phone to check the time.

The New Yorker

Then I head back to my own bed and check the time.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

"One day, I picked up Thurston's phone to check the time, and there was the message," Gordon told me.

The New Yorker

This makes it practically impossible to check the time-feasibility of each of them (this explains the presence of a * in some cells of Tables 1 and 2).

Algorithms for Molecular Biology

Re-check the time.

WikiHow

I check the time and growl — aargh!

The New Yorker

Don't answer your mobile phone or take it out to check the time or text messages.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "check the time" when you need to remind someone to be aware of the current time for scheduling or coordinating purposes.

Common error

Instead of repeatedly saying "check the time", vary your language with phrases like "what time is it?" or "be mindful of the time" to avoid sounding repetitive, especially in conversational contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "check the time" functions primarily as an imperative, directing someone to perform the action of looking at a time-telling device. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, commonly used to remind someone to be aware of the current time. The examples in Ludwig illustrate its versatility in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

38%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "check the time" is a grammatically correct and highly versatile imperative phrase used to prompt time awareness. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage. Predominantly found in News & Media and Wiki contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various situations. While simple, varying your language might be beneficial. Consider alternatives such as "note the time" or "what time is it?" for more nuanced communication. Remember, "check the time" is a frequent instruction, thus be mindful of when and how you’re delivering the message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

What time is it?

Directly asks for the current time.

See what time it is

Focuses on the visual aspect of observing the current time.

Look at the time

Suggests glancing at a time-telling device.

Note the time

Emphasizes making a mental or written record of the time.

Determine the time

Highlights the act of figuring out or calculating the current time.

Consult the clock

Implies referencing a clock to know the time.

Ascertain the hour

A more formal way to ask someone to find out the time.

Observe the hour

A slightly more formal way to say see what time it is.

Be mindful of the time

Focuses on the act of staying aware of the time.

Keep track of the time

Highlights the act of monitoring time over a duration.

FAQs

How can I use "check the time" in a sentence?

You can use "check the time" to instruct someone to look at a clock or watch, such as in the sentence, "Before leaving for your appointment, "check the time" to make sure you're on schedule."

What's a more formal way to say "check the time"?

A more formal alternative to "check the time" would be "ascertain the hour". This phrase is less common in everyday speech but suitable for professional or academic settings.

Are there situations where it's inappropriate to say "check the time"?

While generally acceptable, repeatedly telling someone to "check the time" can come across as impatient or condescending. Be mindful of the context and consider using softer alternatives like "are you aware of the time?"

What can I say instead of "check the time" to subtly suggest someone should be aware of the hour?

Instead of directly saying "check the time", you might say "perhaps we should be mindful of the time" or "it might be wise to "note the time"". These options are less direct but still convey the message.