during rush hours

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "during rush hours" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a period of time when traffic and activity is at its busiest. For example, "It's best to avoid driving on the highway during rush hours if possible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

During non-rush hours, service is spotty; during rush hours, the traffic is awful.

The Economist

The M now runs, infrequently, only during rush hours.

The New York Times

The Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel will also reopen for limited bus service during rush hours, officials said.

The New York Times

The 5 train now takes him directly to work, and runs express during rush hours.

The New York Times

Then television came along, and radios migrated to the car for use during rush hours.

The Economist

Metro-North Railroad on a Saturday schedule, with extra trains during rush hours.

The New York Times

Usually it's during rush hours, but now it's at all hours".

The New York Times

Water Taxi 212-742-1969 The Staten Island Ferry will expand service during rush hours.

The New York Times

TRANSPORTATION: Metro-North on a Saturday schedule, with extra trains during rush hours.

The New York Times

21, cars will be banned from the park on weekdays except during rush hours.

The New York Times

Commuters, it says, will "only will use it during rush hours".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing events or schedules, specify which time zone the "during rush hours" refers to, particularly in international contexts to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that everyone understands the specific "during rush hours" in your area. Always clarify the typical time range (e.g., 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM) to ensure clarity, especially when communicating with people unfamiliar with local traffic patterns.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "during rush hours" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to indicate the time when an action occurs. Ludwig examples show it describing when traffic is heavy, services are limited, or events take place.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "during rush hours" is a common and grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to specify the time when traffic and activity are at their peak. As Ludwig AI notes, it's widely understood and applicable in various contexts. Analysis of numerous examples confirms its frequent use in news reports, scientific articles, and general discussions. While it's important to define "during rush hours" for clarity, especially across different locations, the phrase remains a valuable and versatile tool for describing time-related conditions. Its semantic flexibility allows for substitutions like "during peak hours" or "in heavy traffic", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

during peak hours

Focuses on the period of maximum activity, not necessarily limited to traffic.

at peak times

Similar to 'peak hours' but more general, not restricted to a specific duration.

in heavy traffic

Specifically refers to congested traffic conditions, a common characteristic of rush hour.

when traffic is heavy

Describes the condition of heavy traffic, implying the time period.

in the busiest hours

Highlights the hours with the most activity, potentially in contexts other than traffic.

at the height of the commute

Emphasizes the commuting aspect of rush hour.

during the commute

Focuses on the act of commuting itself rather than the busiest times.

in periods of high congestion

More formal and emphasizes the congestion level during specific periods.

when commuting traffic is at its worst

Highlights the negative experience of commuting during peak congestion.

during periods of increased traffic

A more general term that refers to any time when traffic volume is elevated, not specifically rush hour.

FAQs

What times are typically considered "during rush hours"?

The specific times for "during rush hours" vary by location, but generally it refers to the periods when commuting traffic is heaviest, typically 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM on weekdays.

What can I say instead of "during rush hours" to describe busy periods?

Alternatives include "during peak hours", "at peak times", or "in heavy traffic", depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "in rush hour" instead of "during rush hours"?

While "in rush hour" might be understood, "during rush hours" is the more grammatically standard and widely accepted phrase.

Why is traffic worse "during rush hours"?

Traffic is typically worse "during rush hours" because a large number of people are commuting to and from work or school at the same time, leading to increased congestion and delays.