fighting time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fighting time" is not a standard expression in written English, but it can be understood in context.
You can use it when discussing the struggle against the passage of time or the challenges of meeting deadlines. Example: "As the project deadline approaches, I feel like I'm constantly fighting time to get everything done."

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

It is fighting time.

The Guardian - Tech

Three years ago his thinning locks dictated head shaving "because I was fighting time — and losing," he said.

The New York Times

I remember apologizing to Donald after a particularly rough night of Chevy's non-P.C. verbiage, and Donald said, 'I don't even worry about it.' " Glover told me, "I just saw Chevy as fighting time — a true artist has to be O.K. with his reign being over.

The New Yorker

Both the company and its 94-year-old board chairman are fighting time.

Los Angeles Times

Aasif Mandvi: In the independent film world you're always fighting time and resources versus creativity.

Huffington Post

You're really fighting time.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

I know we are fighting against time".

The New York Times

He's fighting against time because he hasn't had that experience".

The New York Times - Sports

But now Pettitte, like Clemens, is fighting against time in an effort to come back.

The New York Times

Right field is also open, with Xavier Nady and Nick Swisher fighting for time.

The New York Times - Sports

That defeat would take another seven years of fighting, less time than Giap had expected.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "fighting time", ensure the context clearly indicates a struggle against deadlines, aging, or the constraints of a limited timeframe. This phrase works best in informal or creative writing where a more figurative expression is appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "fighting time" in contexts where a literal conflict is implied. It's a figurative phrase, and using it literally can lead to confusion. Instead, opt for more direct language if describing a physical altercation or battle.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fighting time" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun. It is used figuratively to describe a struggle against the limitations or constraints imposed by time. As suggested by Ludwig AI, it's not a very common expression, but its meaning is generally understandable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

17%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fighting time" is a figurative expression used to describe the struggle against the limitations or constraints of time. While not a standard idiom, Ludwig AI confirms its general understandability but suggests that it isn't exceptionally common. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it conveys a sense of urgency and resistance. For formal writing, alternatives like "battling time constraints" or "racing against the clock" may be more appropriate, ensuring clarity and precision. When using "fighting time", ensure the context clearly evokes the intended figurative meaning to avoid misinterpretation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fighting the clock

A more literal interpretation, personifying the clock as the opponent.

racing against the clock

Highlights the urgency and speed required to meet a deadline or overcome a time-sensitive challenge.

pressed for time

Indicates a lack of sufficient time to complete a task.

against the ticking clock

Emphasizes the feeling of anxiety and the constant reminder of the passing time.

battling time constraints

Emphasizes the limitations imposed by time, rather than time itself being the opponent.

contending with time pressure

Emphasizes the stress and demands created by limited time.

struggling with deadlines

Focuses on the difficulties encountered when trying to meet specific deadlines.

in a time crunch

Describes a situation where there is very little time available.

under time constraints

Highlights the limitations imposed by a specific time period.

managing time efficiently

Focuses on the solution to the problem rather than the struggle itself.

FAQs

What does it mean to be "fighting time"?

The phrase "fighting time" typically means struggling against the constraints of time, such as meeting deadlines, aging, or dealing with limited availability. It's a figurative expression that highlights the challenges associated with time management or the inevitable passage of time.

What can I say instead of "fighting time"?

You can use alternatives like "racing against the clock", "battling time constraints", or "pressed for time" depending on the specific context.

Is "fighting time" grammatically correct?

While not a standard, widely recognized idiom, "fighting time" is grammatically acceptable as a gerund phrase used figuratively. Its meaning is generally understood, although more common alternatives might be preferred in formal writing.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "fighting time"?

"Fighting time" is most appropriate in informal or creative writing where a more figurative and evocative expression is desired. It can be used in discussions about project deadlines, personal aging, or any situation where time is perceived as a challenging force.