find time for

USAGE SUMMARY

"find time for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express the idea of making time to do something, usually when one is busy. For example, "With my hectic work schedule, I must find time for exercise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Then, they may find time for governing.

The New York Times

It's hard to find time for yourself".

The Guardian - Music

"Amid war, Burmese rebels find time for golf" (Feb.

The New York Times

How does he find time for all the partying?

The Guardian

"That means you've got to find time for him.

The New York Times - Sports

"We do find time for activities we value, like surfing the Internet or exercising," says Pollan.

The New York Times

But Mr. Hill did manage to find time for ordinary pleasures.

The New York Times

On a road trip, I can never find time for books.

The New Yorker

STOCKHOLM — It is often difficult for conductors of major orchestras to find time for opera.

The New York Times - Arts

Once he's finished those works, he informs the supplicant, perhaps he will find time for them.

Independent

He hopes to find time for a girlfriend, and for other distractions besides.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "find time for", consider emphasizing the importance or benefit of the activity you are making time for to underscore its value.

Common error

Avoid using "find time for" when you know you realistically cannot commit to the task or activity. Be honest about your availability to prevent misunderstandings or unmet expectations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "find time for" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of allocating or discovering sufficient time for a specific activity or purpose. Ludwig AI confirms it's correct to express the idea of making time, often when one is busy.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

27%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "find time for" is a versatile and commonly used expression indicating the effort to make room in a schedule for something, as confirmed by Ludwig. It is considered grammatically correct and is suitable for various contexts, from news articles to casual conversations. While similar alternatives like "make time for" exist, "find time for" often implies discovering or uncovering existing pockets of time. To use it effectively, emphasize the importance of the activity you are making time for. However, be realistic about your availability to avoid overcommitment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

schedule time for

Implies a planned arrangement in a diary or calendar.

dedicate time to

Focuses on committing time for a particular purpose.

set aside time for

Emphasizes the act of intentionally dedicating time.

free up time for

Indicates clearing existing commitments to make time.

allocate time to

Highlights a more formal and structured allocation of time.

carve out time for

Suggests effort in creating time amid busyness.

prioritize time for

Implies ranking activities and giving time to the most important.

make room in schedule for

Focuses on adjusting one's schedule to accommodate something.

make space for

Implies creating mental or physical capacity for something.

create opportunities for

Focuses on facilitating moments to happen.

FAQs

How can I use "find time for" in a sentence?

You can use "find time for" to describe making an effort to do something despite a busy schedule. For example, "Despite my workload, I always "find time for" exercise".

What are some alternatives to "find time for"?

Alternatives include "make time for", "set aside time for", or "allocate time to". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "find time for" or "make time for"?

Both "find time for" and "make time for" are correct and have similar meanings. "Make time for" often implies a more active effort to create time, while "find time for" can suggest discovering existing pockets of time.

How do I "find time for" hobbies when I'm busy?

Try scheduling specific times for hobbies, even if it's just for 15-30 minutes. Prioritize activities that bring you joy and relaxation, and treat them as important appointments you can't miss.