exactly the same time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exactly the same time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to emphasize the exact timing of an event. For example, "We both arrived at the hotel at exactly the same time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's exactly the same time in both places.

The New Yorker

They were being shot at exactly the same time.

The Guardian - Film

Building 20 and brainstorming came into being at almost exactly the same time.

The New Yorker

He went to work at exactly the same time every day.

The New York Times

Two runners are not supposed to finish a race at exactly the same time.

The New Yorker

Diplomatic protocol demands that all the world leaders be served at exactly the same time.

The New Yorker

"I mean, you're telling me you lost them at exactly the same time".

The New York Times

But another drama by a British director screened at exactly the same time: Andrew Haigh's Weekend.

The Guardian - Film

But Mrs. Geus said, "We are not rigidly meeting at exactly the same time each month".

The New York Times

Hence, simply two clocks telling exactly the same time, in "Untitled" (Perfect Lovers).

The Guardian - Arts

The president disappeared for several weeks at exactly the same time last year.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing the precision of simultaneous events, use "exactly the same time" to avoid ambiguity. For instance, clarify that two experiments were conducted at "exactly the same time" to ensure no temporal variance affected results.

Common error

Avoid using "exactly the same time" when simple simultaneity is sufficient. Overusing it can make your writing sound repetitive. Instead of "The meetings were scheduled at exactly the same time", consider "The meetings were scheduled simultaneously".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exactly the same time" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It specifies when an action or event occurs, emphasizing the simultaneity and precision of the timing. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is common and acceptable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

30%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exactly the same time" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to emphasize the synchronicity and precision of events. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While versatile, it's crucial to avoid overuse and consider simpler alternatives like "simultaneously" when appropriate. The phrase finds common ground across news media and scientific literature, making it a valuable tool in various writing contexts. Remembering to stress precision can ensure clarity and prevent ambiguity when describing simultaneous events.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at precisely the same moment

Replaces 'time' with 'moment' emphasizing a specific point in time with high precision.

simultaneously

A single word that conveys the idea of occurring at the same time.

concurrently

Similar to 'simultaneously', but may imply a more extended period of overlap.

at the selfsame time

Uses 'selfsame' for emphasis, highlighting that it's the very same time.

at one and the same time

Emphasizes the unity of the time frame.

in unison

Suggests coordinated action or occurrence.

synchronously

Highlights the synchronized nature of events.

at the same instant

Replaces 'time' with 'instant' focusing on a very short duration.

coincidentally

Highlights the chance nature of events happening at the same time.

in sync

Implies coordination or alignment in timing.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "exactly the same time" to sound more formal?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases such as "simultaneously", "concurrently", or "at the selfsame time". These alternatives convey a similar meaning but are more suited for professional or academic writing.

What does it mean when two events happen at "exactly the same time"?

When two events occur at "exactly the same time", it means that they happen simultaneously or at the same moment, with no difference in timing. This can be used to emphasize the synchronicity of the events.

Is it redundant to say "exactly the same time"?

While "the same time" implies simultaneity, adding "exactly" emphasizes the precision and lack of any temporal difference. Whether it's redundant depends on the context and the need to highlight the accuracy of the timing.

When should I use "exactly the same time" instead of just "the same time"?

Use "exactly the same time" when you want to stress the precision or synchronicity of events. For example, "The experiment was conducted in two labs at "exactly the same time" to ensure consistent conditions" provides more emphasis than simply saying "the same time".