clock has started

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clock has started" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a specific time period or countdown has begun, often in contexts like competitions, projects, or deadlines. Example: "The clock has started, so make sure to submit your entries before the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The clock has started".

The New York Times

With the Crimea "referendum" a new clock has started to tick.

The Guardian - Opinion

NEXT STEP FOR GRANDERSON Curtis Granderson played in an extended spring training game Wednesday in Tampa, Fla., Joe Girardi said, meaning the clock has started on his return.

The New York Times - Sports

[C9.] A Worrisome Time for Amerindo Investors The clock has started ticking for investors with Amerindo Investment Advisors, after the firm's cofounders were charged with theft of assets.

The New York Times

The president has 10 sessions in the lower house to present her defence and the decision to hold a session on Friday meant the clock has started on those, even though the special impeachment committee did not meet.

The Guardian

The clock has started to tick.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"I knew the clock had started immediately after the first tip, so I really wasn't sure how much time was left on the clock," Battie said.

The New York Times - Sports

The impact of unrhythmic circadian clock on obesity has started to be increasingly appreciated nowadays.

Medical Hypotheses

By putting Portugal on its Creditwatch Negative list, S&P has started the clock ticking towards a possible downgrade within 90 days.

The Guardian - Business

The shooting death of 17-year-old Trayvon Martin in Florida more than a month ago has started that proverbial clock once again.

Huffington Post

(HuffPost contacted Burr's office and has started the walk-back clock on that one).

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "clock has started" to clearly indicate the beginning of a limited time frame or a process with a specific duration, particularly in situations involving deadlines, competitions, or project milestones.

Common error

Avoid using "clock has started" in situations where there is no clear implication of a time limit or a process with a defined end. Ensure the context genuinely involves a start and a perceived 'ticking' towards a conclusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clock has started" functions as a declaration indicating the commencement of a time-sensitive activity or event. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

29%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "clock has started" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that signals the beginning of a time-sensitive period or process, as confirmed by Ludwig. While not excessively common, it is frequently found in News & Media contexts and carries a neutral to professional tone. Its primary purpose is to highlight the urgency or time constraint associated with an event. When using the phrase, ensure that the context genuinely involves a limited time frame. Consider alternatives like "time has begun" or "countdown has commenced" for more formal situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

time has begun

Replaces "clock" with "time" emphasizing the commencement of a period.

countdown has commenced

Uses a more formal term "commenced" and specifies a "countdown".

game has begun

Metaphorically uses "game" instead of "clock", implying a competitive scenario.

process has initiated

Replaces "clock" with "process," focusing on the start of a procedure.

operation is underway

Indicates an action is in progress, shifting the focus from time to activity.

phase has launched

Emphasizes the start of a distinct stage or phase.

curtain has risen

Idiomatic expression suggesting the beginning of an event or performance.

ball is rolling

Implies progress has started. It is less formal.

wheels are turning

Suggests that preparations or initial stages are underway.

engines are running

A more vivid analogy suggesting that activity is now happening.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone says "clock has started"?

It means that a specific period or countdown has begun. It's often used when there is a limited time to complete a task or when a process has been initiated.

How can I use "clock has started" in a sentence?

You can use it to indicate the beginning of a timed event. For example, "The "clock has started", so we need to work quickly to meet the deadline."

What can I say instead of "clock has started"?

You can use alternatives like "time has begun", "countdown has commenced", or "game has begun" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "clock has started" in formal writing?

Yes, it is generally appropriate, but consider the tone. More formal alternatives like "process has initiated" might be preferred in highly formal contexts.