devote time to something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "devote time to something" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the allocation of time or effort towards a specific task, activity, or goal. Example: "In order to improve my skills, I need to devote time to practicing the piano every day."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

I realized I needed to devote time to doing something with the inspiration I had tapped into, so I quit the job and drove out to a cabin with my dog on a little lake outside of Syracuse, New York, where I grew up.

Huffington Post

If something is worrying you, then devote time to figuring it out and then get back to your studies if you can.

WikiHow

For starters, she wasn't busy enough, and she recommends that new students pick something — a club, activity or volunteer opportunity — to devote time to.

The Washington Post

He continued to devote time to the University of Rochester.

The New York Times

It allowed us to devote time to Caroline.

The New York Times

If you are going to devote time to this character.

WikiHow

Or, maybe you devoted time to your strengths and recognised you could have wasted hours on something you would not improve upon".

The Guardian

He also devoted time to charitable causes.

The New York Times

It's a good moment for Mr Margalit to devote more time to something bigger: nothing less than the transformation of Jerusalem.

The Economist

"But it's when your editors protect you, and devote your time to something, that you can really shine a bright light".

Huffington Post

Very early on I would look towards artists whose work I had been drawn to but after painting for 10 hours every day, my own form emerged. I'm sure if it hadn't, I would have given up, it wouldn't be possible for me to devote so much time to something that felt surface like, I have found out who I am through my work, it's made me ask questions of myself that have demanded answers.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "devote time to something", ensure the "something" is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "devote time to projects", specify "devote time to completing the marketing analysis project".

Common error

Avoid using "devote time to something" when the time commitment is minimal or sporadic. This phrase implies a significant and consistent allocation of effort. Overusing it can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "devote time to something" functions as a verb phrase indicating the allocation of time and energy towards a specific activity or goal. It expresses a deliberate and often significant commitment. Based on Ludwig AI it is considered grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "devote time to something" is grammatically sound and signifies allocating significant time and effort to a particular activity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While there are no exact examples available, related phrases include "dedicate time to something" and "allocate time to something", offering nuanced alternatives. When using this phrase, ensure clarity in defining the "something" and avoid overgeneralization. It is appropriate for various contexts, emphasizing a deliberate commitment of resources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dedicate time to something

Replaces "devote" with "dedicate", offering a similar level of commitment.

commit time to something

Employs "commit" instead of "devote", highlighting a pledge to dedicate time.

allocate time to something

Substitutes "devote" with "allocate", implying a more formal or structured assignment of time.

set aside time for something

Replaces "devote" with "set aside", emphasizing the act of reserving time.

invest time in something

Changes "devote time to" to "invest time in", framing the action as a valuable contribution.

make time for something

Substitutes "devote" with "make", highlighting the effort to create time in a schedule.

spend time on something

Uses "spend" instead of "devote", suggesting a less formal or intense commitment.

give time to something

Uses "give" instead of "devote", suggesting a voluntary offering of time.

dedicate resources to something

Expands "time" to "resources", broadening the scope of commitment.

focus one's energy on something

Shifts from "time" to "energy", emphasizing the concentration of effort.

FAQs

How can I use "devote time to something" in a sentence?

You can use "devote time to something" to indicate allocating a significant amount of time and effort to a particular activity or goal. For example, "I need to "dedicate time to" learning a new language."

What are some alternatives to "devote time to something"?

Alternatives include "dedicate time to something", "allocate time to something", or "invest time in something", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "devote time to something" or "dedicate time to something"?

Both "devote time to something" and "dedicate time to something" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific tone you want to achieve. "Dedicate" might imply a slightly more formal or solemn commitment.

Can I use "devote time for something" instead of "devote time to something"?

No, the correct preposition to use with "devote time" in this context is "to". "Devote time for something" is not standard English. You should always say "devote time to something".