during the time

USAGE SUMMARY

"during the time" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to an unspecified length of time in the past, present, or future. For example, "During the time that we have known each other, we have been through a lot together."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

One Rape, Please (to Go)  .

Vice

"It was during the time of the hunger strikes.

The Guardian

The opera boxes during the time of the great exhibition!

Yale University

He was in grade eight during the time of Partition.

Stanford University

Of course, that changed during the time we lived there.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

That aqueduct was begun during the time of Augustus.

Yale University

Then, during the time trial race, he crashed.

The New York Times

I remember the little towns of eastern Kenya Manderara, Garissa — during the time of the Somalian war.

The New Yorker

Rebecca Spang displaying the different and distinct local French currencies during the time of the French Revolution.

Yale University

Except during Summer Quarter, you must be enrolled during the time you live on campus.

Stanford University

"Michael [Forsythe] both reported and wrote that story during the time he worked for the Times.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "during the time", ensure the context clearly specifies or implies the timeframe being referenced. Avoid ambiguity by providing specific dates or events when possible.

Common error

Avoid using "during the time" without a clear reference point. Vague usage can confuse readers; always specify the period you're referring to.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "during the time" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically introducing a clause that specifies when something occurred or was the case. As Ludwig AI explains, it refers to an unspecified period in the past, present, or future.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Academia

34%

Science

26%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "during the time" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed prepositional phrase used to establish temporal context. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is versatile for referring to past, present, or future durations. While suitable for diverse contexts, including news, academic, and scientific domains, opting for more specific alternatives might enhance clarity in formal settings. Common writing errors involve ambiguous timeframe references, emphasizing the importance of specifying dates or events. Remember to add precision when using it. Overall, its high frequency and broad applicability make it a valuable component of effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

while

A shorter, more concise alternative that emphasizes simultaneity.

in the course of

A more formal option suggesting a process or duration.

throughout the period

Highlights a defined timeframe.

within the duration

Emphasizes the limited length of the interval.

at the point when

Specifies a particular moment within the time frame.

as

A simple alternative indicating when something happens simultaneously.

during the period that

More explicit and formal, clarifying the time frame.

in the interim

Focuses on the interval between two events.

whilst

A somewhat archaic synonym for "while", adds a formal tone.

in those days

Specifically refers to a time in the past.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "during the time" for variety?

Consider using alternatives like "while", "in the course of", or "throughout the period" to add nuance to your writing.

Is there a difference between "during the time" and "at the time"?

"During the time" refers to a span of time, whereas "at the time" pinpoints a specific moment. Use "during" for durations and "at" for precise instances.

What's a more formal substitute for "during the time"?

For a more formal tone, try "in the course of" or "throughout the period". These options lend a more sophisticated feel to your writing.

How can I make my use of "during the time" more precise?

To enhance precision, specify the timeframe using concrete dates, events, or periods. For example, instead of "during the time", use "during the 1920s" or "during the French Revolution".