disproportionate amount of time

USAGE SUMMARY

'disproportionate amount of time' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe situations in which too much time is spent in comparison to the results. For example, "She spent a disproportionate amount of time practicing, yet she still failed the exam."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Messaging apps account for a disproportionate amount of time we spend on our phones.

The Guardian

Jupp feared that Bennet's increasing obsession with Manual was consuming a disproportionate amount of time.

The New Yorker

I spend a disproportionate amount of time complaining to you about how I am perceived.

The New Yorker

Dedicating a disproportionate amount of time to something meaningless Welcome to the world of work.

Independent

"It means that campaigns now have to spend a disproportionate amount of time fund-raising".

The New York Times

Older couples will often spend a disproportionate amount of time arguing over something of sentimental rather than real value.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

To coach England at rugby union is to spend a disproportionate amount of time awaiting disciplinary verdicts.

The Guardian - Sport

One problem above all others occupies an utterly disproportionate amount of time in Spain's small and often overstretched foreign ministry.

The Economist

"There's definitely a disproportionate amount of time and money being spent fighting Arthur Scargill rather than looking after the members and protecting the union," he tells me.

The Guardian

"But when lower socioeconomic groups get online, they do find sites relevant to them and spend a disproportionate amount of time there".

The New York Times

Both governors dedicated a disproportionate amount of time and resources in New Hampshire, seeking to claim the so-called "establishment" mantle as party moderates.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "disproportionate amount of time", ensure it's clear what the time is being spent on and why it's considered imbalanced. Providing context will strengthen your statement.

Common error

While "disproportionate amount of time" is a useful phrase, avoid using it repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language to maintain reader engagement. Consider using synonyms like "excessive duration" or "too much time spent".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "disproportionate amount of time" functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating the extent to which time is being allocated to a specific activity. It suggests that the time spent is imbalanced or excessive in relation to other factors. Ludwig confirms that it's grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

26%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "disproportionate amount of time" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig. It serves to highlight an imbalance or excess in how time is allocated, often implying criticism or concern. Its versatility allows for usage across various contexts, although it is most prevalent in news and media. When employing this phrase, clarity and context are key, ensuring the reason for the perceived imbalance is evident. While the examples on Ludwig show wide applicability, remember to avoid overuse and consider synonyms like "excessive duration" for variety. This linguistic analysis should aid in your writing by enabling you to use the expression with precision and nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disproportionate time allocation

This alternative focuses on the allocation of time being out of balance.

too much time spent

This is a simpler and more direct way of expressing the same idea.

inordinate time commitment

This suggests a commitment that is excessive or unreasonable.

undue length of time

This alternative highlights that the duration is inappropriate or unjustified.

unwarranted time investment

This alternative emphasizes that the investment of time is not justified.

unreasonable time expenditure

Highlights the time spent as an expense that is not reasonable.

excessive duration

This alternative focuses on the length of time being too long, rather than the imbalance.

excessive focus of time

This alternative emphasizes that too much focus is being put on something.

undue emphasis on time

This suggests an inappropriate or excessive focus on the temporal aspect of something.

lopsided investment of time

This alternative suggests the investment of time isn't balanced.

FAQs

How can I use "disproportionate amount of time" in a sentence?

You can use "disproportionate amount of time" to describe situations where too much time is being spent on something relative to its importance or value. For example, "The company spent a "disproportionate amount of time" on minor tasks, neglecting more critical projects".

What are some alternatives to saying "disproportionate amount of time"?

Alternatives include "excessive duration", "undue length of time", or "inordinate time commitment" depending on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to use "disproportionate amount of time" or "excessive amount of time"?

Both phrases are valid, but "disproportionate amount of time" implies an imbalance in how time is allocated, while "excessive amount of time" simply means too much time is spent. Choose the phrase that best reflects the specific situation you're describing.

What does it mean when someone says they spend a "disproportionate amount of time" on something?

It means they feel they are spending too much time on that particular task or activity, especially when compared to other tasks or activities that should be receiving more attention.