crunched for time

USAGE SUMMARY

"crunch for time" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is typically used to indicate that someone is short on time or running out of time to complete a task. For example: I'm crunched for time, so I need to finish this project as quickly as possible.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

It is well-suited for viewers using mobile devices, Google executives said, when they are often crunched for time and have little patience for unwanted interruptions.

The New York Times

For once, in a city of people chronically crunched for time, nobody in the little crowd gathering in Central Park seemed to be in any rush to get someplace else.

The New York Times

A1 A Rare Christmas Eclipse For once, in a city of people chronically crunched for time, nobody in the little crowd gathering in Central Park seemed to be in any rush to get someplace else.

The New York Times

Saturday's lightning strike of a first round was the shortest since 1990, and it was obvious from the eight first-round trades that teams were not so crunched for time that they could not do business.

The New York Times - Sports

If you are crunched for time, you can derive the same health benefits from breaking up the half-hour into three 10-minute sessions.

Science Magazine

This can be sort of fun as you learn how everything is connected, but if you're crunched for time this can pull your attention away from the task at hand.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Crunch Time for Coyotes The fate of the Phoenix Coyotes, the "War and Peace" of N.H.L. franchise sales, remains uncertain.

The New York Times - Sports

Crunch Time for Glencore and Xstrata  |  The mining giant has until Monday to decide whether to accept Glencore's sweetened merger offer.

The New York Times

See Also: Crunch Time For Digital Distribution.

Forbes

It would be remarkable if either had a role at the World Cup finals in Brazil, but there is little merit to hypothesising and number crunching for the time being.

The Guardian - Sport

"But however strong the policy response is, there undoubtedly would be a serious credit crunch for a time due to the hit to banking systems and the uncertainty over the situation.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "crunched for time", ensure the context clearly indicates the reason for the time shortage to enhance clarity. For example, "I'm crunched for time because of the upcoming deadline".

Common error

Avoid using "crunched for time" in highly formal settings where a more professional tone is expected. Instead, opt for phrases like "time-constrained" or "under a tight schedule" to maintain formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "crunched for time" functions as an adjectival phrase, describing a state of being short on time. It modifies a subject, indicating they have limited time available. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

17%

Science & Research

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "crunched for time" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that effectively conveys a shortage of time. As Ludwig AI points out, it is suitable for various contexts, although more formal settings may benefit from alternatives like "time-constrained" or "pressed for time". Predominantly found in news and media, it's crucial to consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing when employing this phrase to ensure optimal communication. The phrase serves to explain that someone is busy and, eventually, stressed by its time constraints.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

short on time

Focuses on the lack of available time.

pressed for time

Emphasizes the urgency and demand on one's time.

time-constrained

Highlights the limitation imposed by time.

lacking time

Directly states the absence of sufficient time.

under a time constraint

Formally indicates operating within a specific time limitation.

against the clock

Suggests racing to meet a deadline.

racing against time

Emphasizes the urgency of completing something quickly.

with limited time available

Clearly states the scarcity of free time.

strapped for time

Implies being restricted or inconvenienced by the lack of time.

in a time bind

Suggests being in a difficult situation due to time limitations.

FAQs

How can I use "crunched for time" in a sentence?

You can use "crunched for time" to indicate a lack of sufficient time to complete a task, as in "I am "crunched for time" and need to prioritize my tasks".

What's a more formal way to say "crunched for time"?

In professional settings, consider using phrases like "time-constrained" or "operating under a tight schedule" which convey the same meaning with a more formal tone.

What does it mean to be "crunched for time"?

Being "crunched for time" means you are experiencing a shortage of time and are struggling to fit everything into your schedule. It implies that you are busy and possibly stressed due to time constraints.

Are there any situations where I shouldn't use "crunched for time"?

While "crunched for time" is widely understood, it may not be suitable for very formal or academic writing. In those contexts, more formal alternatives such as "time is of the essence" or "under a strict deadline" might be more appropriate.